Circle Round Episode Summary: "Encore: The Rooster in the Sky"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Circle Round
• Host/Author: WBUR
• Description: WBUR's Circle Round adapts folktales from around the world into engaging radio plays for children and families. Each episode explores themes like kindness, persistence, and generosity, concluding with activities to deepen conversations between children and adults.
• Episode: Encore: The Rooster in the Sky
• Release Date: June 3, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Circle Round titled "The Rooster in the Sky," host Rebecca Shear weaves a captivating folktale inspired by Russian narratives, also echoed in Hungarian and Middle Eastern stories. The tale centers around Tatiana, a resilient woman living alone in the countryside, who embodies perseverance and gratitude amidst adversity.

Tatiana's Struggle and Resourcefulness

00:00 - 02:00
Rebecca Shear introduces Tatiana, a solitary woman enduring the hardships of countryside life. Her humble hut becomes increasingly dilapidated over the years, reflecting her challenging circumstances.

Tatiana:
"Oh, there is hardly a crumb left in this entire house. If I don't find something to eat soon, I'll starve. But no use complaining. Better to do something. Think, Tatiana, think."
(02:00)

Despite her dire situation, Tatiana refuses to succumb to negativity. She recalls her grandmother's wisdom about using acorns as a food source, showcasing her proactive mindset.

Gathering Acorns and the Magical Encounter

02:17 - 06:48
On a crisp autumn day, Tatiana sets out to gather acorns from the forest, filling her sack diligently. However, upon returning home, a mishap scatters the acorns, forcing her to make do with what remains. Her determination leads her to grind the acorns into flour using her grandmother's old handmill, resulting in a satisfying meal.

The next morning brings a miraculous sight: an oak tree grows through her hut, prompting Tatiana to climb its towering trunk in search of more acorns. At the peak, amidst the clouds, she encounters a plump yellow rooster with a bright red crest.

Rooster:
"Cock a doodle doo. See what I have for you"
(06:09)

The rooster presents Tatiana with a gleaming golden handmill.

Tatiana:
"What a spectacular hand mill. And it's really for me... Thank you, Rooster."
(06:52)

Impressed by the rooster's generosity, Tatiana invites the rooster to stay, gaining a loyal companion in her solitude.

The Golden Handmill and the Greedy Merchant

07:54 - 14:18
Tatiana and the rooster enjoy the benefits of the golden handmill, producing delicious treats effortlessly. However, their peace is disrupted when a wealthy and greedy merchant seeks refuge at Tatiana's doorstep, claiming his horse is lost and expressing extreme hunger.

Eager to help, Tatiana shares her bounty, unknowingly allowing the merchant to steal the golden handmill during the night.

Tatiana:
"Oh, rooster, that greedy man stole our hand mill. This is horrible. What are we going to do?"
(14:10)

Determined to reclaim the stolen mill, the rooster vows to return it to Tatiana.

The Rooster's Quest and the Merchant's Downfall

14:18 - 19:38
The rooster embarks on a heroic journey to the merchant's opulent mansion. Upon arrival, it confronts the merchant, who stubbornly claims ownership of the mill. As the merchant orders his servants to dispose of the rooster, the magical bird uses its powers to thwart his efforts.

• At the Well:
  Rooster:
  "Cock a doodle doo. Drink the water I've been thrown into."
  (15:59)
  The rooster drains the well of its water, rendering it empty.

• In the Kitchen:
  Rooster:
  "Cock a doodle doo soak the flames right through."
  (17:09)
  The rooster extinguishes the stove's fire, preventing its destruction.

Amidst the merchant's lavish party, the rooster's persistent crowing exposes the merchant's deceit, causing panic among the guests. The golden handmill is ultimately returned to Tatiana, restoring peace and justice.

Tatiana:
"So you did, rooster, so you did."
(19:30)

Resolution and Moral

19:38 - 22:32
With the golden handmill restored, Tatiana and the rooster continue their harmonious life, ensuring they never go hungry again. The story emphasizes the virtues of resilience, generosity, and the triumph of good over greed.

Rebecca Shear concludes the story by encouraging listeners to reflect on acts of kindness in their own lives.

Key Insights and Lessons

• Resilience in Adversity: Tatiana's refusal to complain exemplifies the strength of maintaining a positive outlook despite challenges.

• Generosity and Friendship: The rooster's selfless gift and subsequent efforts to reclaim the handmill highlight the importance of true friendship and generosity.

• Overcoming Greed: The merchant's downfall serves as a cautionary tale against the perils of greed and dishonesty.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Tatiana on Gratitude:
  "But no use complaining. Better to do something. Think, Tatiana, think."
  (02:00)

• Rooster's Introduction:
  "Cock a doodle doo. See what I have for you."
  (06:09)

• Gift Acceptance:
  "What a spectacular hand mill. And it's really for me... Thank you, Rooster."
  (06:52)

• Merchant's Greed:
  "Can you believe it, folks? All you have to do is turn the crank and out come all these delectable treats."
  (18:16)

• Rooster's Defiance:
  "Cock a doodle doo. That mill doesn't belong to you."
  (16:24)

Conclusion and Activity

The episode wraps up by inviting listeners to engage in activities that reinforce the story's themes. Rebecca Shear encourages drawing and sharing acts of helping others, fostering a sense of community and empathy among young audiences.

Final Thoughts

"The Rooster in the Sky" is a heartwarming tale that beautifully illustrates the power of perseverance, kindness, and the importance of standing up against injustice. Through Tatiana's journey and the magical rooster's assistance, listeners are reminded of the value of positive action and the enduring strength of genuine friendships.