1. Who did the villagers turn to for help when the crops began to wither?

The villagers turned to Saffron the Snake for help when the crops began to wither.

2. What made this year different from previous New Year celebrations?

This year was different because the village's good fortune suddenly vanished, and the crops began to wither, which had never happened before during the New Year celebrations.

3. Why did Ruby suggest asking Oliver the Ox for help?

Ruby suggested asking Oliver the Ox for help because he was known for being strong and hardworking, and she believed he might know what was wrong with the crops, given his connection to the land and work ethic.

4. What was Oliver the Ox doing when Saffron and Ruby found him?

When Saffron and Ruby found Oliver, he was ploughing the fields, but despite his efforts, the crops weren't growing.

5. How did the friends restore the village's good fortune?

The friends restored the village's good fortune by working together:

  • Ruby used her cleverness to design new paths for the water to reach the fields.
  • Oliver used his strength to plough the land.
  • Saffron provided wisdom, guiding them to ensure they worked carefully and patiently.

6. What did Saffron realize about the village's fortune?

Saffron realized that the village's fortune wasn't lost; rather, it was within the villagers themselves. Teamwork and the unique talents of each individual could bring back good fortune.

7. How did each character contribute to solving the problem in the village?

  • Ruby contributed her quick thinking by designing new paths for the water.
  • Oliver contributed his strength and hard work by ploughing the fields.
  • Saffron contributed his wisdom, guiding the team and ensuring they worked with care and patience.

8. What do you think is the most important lesson from this story? Why?

The most important lesson from this story is that teamwork and using everyone's unique talents can solve problems and bring about positive change. This lesson is important because it teaches us that no one person has all the answers, but when people work together and combine their strengths, they can overcome challenges and achieve success.