Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages

Episode: The Boy Who Drew Cats
Release Date: July 4, 2025
Host: Amanda Weldon
Adapted by: Daniel Hines

Introduction

In this enchanting episode of Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages, host Amanda Weldon brings to life the timeless Japanese fable, The Boy Who Drew Cats. Translated by Lafcadio Hearn and skillfully adapted for audio by Daniel Hines, this story weaves a tale of creativity, determination, and the magic that lies within an artist's heart.

The Boy's Early Life

Long ago, in a quaint Japanese village, a humble farmer and his wife struggled to feed their four children. The elder son toiled tirelessly in the fields, while the two middle daughters assisted their mother with nimble fingers. However, the youngest child, a clever but physically frail boy, stood out for his intellectual gifts rather than his farming prowess. Unlike his siblings, he found solace in reading and drawing, interests that set him apart in a family bound by agricultural toil.

Joining the Temple as an Acolyte

Recognizing their son's unique talents, his parents decided it was best for him to pursue a path suited to his strengths. They sent him to the village temple to become an acolyte under the tutelage of an experienced priest. The priest, initially skeptical, posed challenging questions to test the boy's preparedness. To his delight, the boy answered each inquiry with remarkable wit and intelligence, earning the priest's acceptance.

As the boy settled into his new life, he excelled in his studies, embracing every task with enthusiasm. Nevertheless, he harbored a deep passion for drawing cats—a fascination that often led him to decorate the temple's sacred spaces with his feline creations. Despite the priest's gentle reprimands, the boy couldn't quell his creative urges.

Priest [06:40]: "My boy, I'm sorry to say, but you must go away from this temple."

Boy [06:50]: "But I like it here. I get to draw all the time."

The priest realized that while the boy possessed artistic genius, his inclinations clashed with the disciplined life of an acolyte. A heartfelt conversation ensued, leading to the boy's departure from the temple.

A Cryptic Warning

Before parting ways, the priest offered a mysterious piece of advice:

Priest [07:30]: "This may seem strange, but I've got an intuition about you. Please avoid large places at night. Keep to small."

The boy, puzzled by this counsel, set out to explore his artistic potential, unaware of the challenges that awaited him.

Seeking Opportunities at the Big Temple

Determined to find a place where his talents would be appreciated, the boy journeyed to a neighboring village rumored to house a grand temple. Unbeknownst to him, the temple had been overtaken by a menacing goblin who transformed into a colossal rat each night, wreaking havoc and instilling fear among the local priests.

Upon arriving at night, the boy discovered the temple eerily quiet, with a single lamp casting shadows within. Undeterred, he entered, assuming the priests were occupied with prayers. Sweeping aside layers of dust and cobwebs, he began cleaning, unaware of the lurking danger.

Unleashing Artistic Magic

In his quest to find painting supplies, the boy stumbled upon a box of blessed ink and brushes abandoned by the fleeing priests. Enthralled by the discovery, he set to work, adorning the temple's vast screens with intricate drawings of cats. The enchanted ink seemed to flow effortlessly from his brush, each feline figure exuding a life of its own.

As midnight approached, the priest's earlier warning echoed in his mind:

Priest [15:08]: "Avoid large places, keep to small."

Realizing he was alone in the immense temple, fear began to creep in. Seeking refuge, the boy hid in a small cabinet just as the goblin, in the form of a monstrous rat, stormed into the temple.

The Battle Between Art and Darkness

Startled by the cacophony of battle outside his hiding spot, the boy remained silent, watching in terror as the goblin wreaked havoc. Suddenly, the temple plunged into darkness, and the sounds intensified. Trembling with fear, the boy struggled to remain quiet until dawn broke, revealing a scene of devastation.

In the aftermath, he discovered the goblin lying dead, its presence eradicated from the temple. As he looked closer, he noticed that his own cat drawings had transformed into fierce guardians, their claws adorned with the same purple hue as the goblin's blood. It became clear that his art had come to life, defending the temple from the malevolent creature.

Recognition and Legacy

Rushing back to the village's temporary temple, the boy recounted his ordeal. The priests, astonished by the destruction of the goblin, traced the miracle back to the boy's guardian cats. Instead of reprimanding him for his earlier transgressions, they celebrated his unique gift, honoring him as the temple's revered artist.

Embracing his destiny, the boy continued to create, his legendary feline drawings safeguarding the region. His talent earned him fame across Japan, with his cat paintings enduring as symbols of protection and artistic brilliance.

Conclusion

The Boy Who Drew Cats serves as a heartwarming reminder of the strength found in embracing one's true passion. Through creativity and courage, the boy transformed adversity into triumph, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.

Notable Quotes

• Priest [06:40]: "My boy, I'm sorry to say, but you must go away from this temple."

• Boy [06:50]: "But I like it here. I get to draw all the time."

• Priest [07:30]: "This may seem strange, but I've got an intuition about you. Please avoid large places at night. Keep to small."

• Priest [15:08]: "Avoid large places, keep to small."

Insights and Themes

• Embracing Individuality: The boy's journey underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing one's unique talents, even when they diverge from societal expectations.

• Creativity as Protection: His artistic expressions not only defined his identity but also served as a shield against darkness, illustrating the profound impact of creativity.

• Courage to Follow One's Path: Despite uncertainties and fears, the boy's determination to pursue his passion led to his ultimate success and recognition.

Final Thoughts

Amanda Weldon's rendition of The Boy Who Drew Cats captivates listeners with its rich narrative and moral lessons. Perfect for imaginative families, this story encourages children and parents alike to cherish their creative spirits and remain steadfast in the face of challenges.

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