A farmer with three sons struggles to decide how to divide his property fairly. To resolve this, he sends them on a quest to find brides, promising the farm to the son who brings back the most beautiful betrothal gift. The youngest son, Kubik, known for his kindness, encounters a talking frog in the forest. The frog offers to help him, leading him to her daughter, Kachenka, who presents Kubik with a stunning diamond ring. Despite his brothers' mockery and his father's suspicion of theft, Kubik is beaten for the ring and sent on another quest. The farmer then requests an embroidered kerchief, and again, Kubik returns with a magnificent one from Kachenka, only to be punished again by his father. The farmer's next challenge is for the sons to bring home their brides, and Kubik, fearing ridicule for bringing a frog, tries to avoid the old frog. However, fate leads him back to her, and he reluctantly accepts Kachenka's help. After a night of sleep, Kubik awakens in a lavish castle, where he learns that the frog and her daughter were under an enchantment. His kindness broke the spell, and he is rewarded by marrying Kachenka, now a beautiful princess. They return to Kubik's village, where his father and brothers are astonished by his transformation and royal status. The farmer happily relinquishes his farm, and the family moves to the kingdom, where they live in peace and prosperity, with Kubik becoming a beloved king. The story concludes with a reminder of Kubik's legacy, emphasizing the importance of kindness and the unexpected rewards it can bring.
By Parker Fillmore · First published 1930 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Children's Literature