Circle Round Podcast Summary: "Encore: Of Beans and Bunnies"
Podcast Information
- Title: Circle Round
- Host/Author: WBUR
- Description: Circle Round adapts folktales from around the world into engaging radio plays for children and families, addressing important themes such as kindness, persistence, and generosity. Each episode concludes with an activity to foster deeper conversations between children and adults.
- Episode: Encore: Of Beans and Bunnies
- Release Date: July 8, 2025
Introduction
In this special encore edition of Circle Round, host Rebecca Shear presents the enchanting folktale "Of Beans and Bunnies." This episode reintroduces listeners to a clever protagonist, Pedro, whose wit is put to the test against a heartless banker in a small, troubled town.
Setting the Scene
The story unfolds in a quaint, distant town plagued by financial hardships. The townspeople rely heavily on a strict local banker who provides loans with a daunting interest policy: any delay in repayment results in the debt doubling each day. This oppressive practice keeps the community in constant fear and under the banker's merciless control.
Notable Quote:
Banker (03:02): "You're going to be late, you say? Unacceptable. For every day you're late in paying me back, I will double the amount you owe me. Double."
Introduction of Pedro
Enter Pedro, a resourceful traveler known for his sharp intellect and quick thinking. Unlike the stressed townspeople, Pedro carries little more than his clothes and his wits, which he uses to navigate challenges effectively.
Pedro’s First Encounter with the Banker
Upon arriving in town, Pedro witnesses the banker's ruthless behavior firsthand. Disturbed by the overheard conversation where the banker threatens to double a poor man's debt, Pedro resolves to teach the banker a lesson.
Notable Quote:
Pedro (04:36): "Gosh, that banker is awful. I should do something to teach him a lesson. The question is, what?"
Crafting the Magic Pot Trick
Pedro devises a clever plan involving everyday items:
- Purchasing Essentials: With his limited gold, Pedro buys a clay pot, black beans, a wooden spoon, and charcoal from the local grocer.
- Setting the Trap: Under cover of night, Pedro simulates a magical cooking process using these items, creating the illusion of a "magic pot" that cooks without fire.
- Confronting the Banker: When the curious banker inspects the pot, Pedro convinces him of its magical properties, eventually tricking the banker into purchasing the "magic pot" for 1,000 gold coins.
Notable Quotes:
Pedro (07:36): "Magic pot, make some heat. Give me something good to eat."
Banker (09:14): "Listen, Pedro, was it."
The Banker’s Folly
Believing he has acquired a genuine magical artifact, the banker attempts to use the pot but discovers it lacks true magic. Frustrated and hungry, he realizes he has been deceived by Pedro's ingenuity.
Notable Quote:
Banker (12:18): "There are coals underneath this pot and they're black and cold as can be."
Pedro’s Second Scheme: The Twin Bunnies
Undeterred by his initial success, Pedro introduces a second ruse involving twin bunnies:
- Acquiring Bunnies: Pedro buys two identical bunnies from a farmer.
- Setting Up the Boarding House: He leaves one bunny at a boarding house and tucks the other into his satchel.
- Inviting the Banker to Dinner: Pedro invites the banker to a grand dinner, using the "magic" ability of the bunny to send messages, thus convincing the banker to attend.
The Banker’s Second Mistake
During dinner, Pedro leverages the absence of the magical capabilities of the bunny to negotiate the forgiveness of all the townspeople's debts in exchange for the bunny. Faced with Pedro's clever negotiation, the banker begrudgingly agrees, releasing the town from his oppressive loans.
Notable Quotes:
Pedro (19:39): "That said, I could consider parting with it on one condition."
Banker (20:19): "All right, fine. You win. I'll forgive all the townspeople's debts. Every last one of them. Just give me that bunny."
Conclusion and Moral
With the townspeople's debts forgiven, the banker is left without leverage, and Pedro’s actions bring relief and freedom to the community. The story emphasizes the power of wit and kindness over greed and oppression, showcasing how one individual's intelligence and compassion can effect meaningful change.
Closing Message: Rebecca Shear concludes the story by encouraging listeners to take action in their own communities, whether through small acts of kindness or larger initiatives to address injustices.
Production Notes
- Adaptation by: Rebecca Shear
- Edited by: Amarie Sivertson
- Music and Sound Design: Eric Shimalonis
- Artist: Sabina Hahn
- Special Thanks: Kevin Corbett, Rishikesh Irue, Edward Hong, Nick Sholly, Amari Sivertson, Mike Smith, Alexia Trainor, Dawn Ursula, and Efren Ramirez.
Notable Quote:
Pedro (23:00): "I'm sorry, sir, but my little gray bunny isn't for sale."
Listener Feedback
The episode concludes with listeners sharing their favorite Circle Round stories, highlighting the show's impact and the cherished memories it creates for families worldwide.
Example Listener Comments:
- Zoe from Hawaii: "My favorite episode is the Bright Yellow Hat. I like the part where she talks to the tree..."
- Milo from Richardson, Texas: "My favorite Circle Round is the most fabulous fur. My favorite part is when the rabbit takes the otter's coat."
Final Thoughts
"Of Beans and Bunnies" serves as a delightful reminder of the value of intelligence and benevolence. Pedro's adventures not only entertain but also inspire listeners to stand up against unfairness and to use their own skills to make the world a better place.
For more stories, coloring pages, and activities, visit WBUR.org/CircleRound.