A boy climbs to the top of a giant beanstalk where he uses his quick wits to outsmart an ogre and make his and his mother's fortune. Includes historical notes on versions of this tale, other heroic stories, and alternate "ascension" tales.

A poor shoemaker becomes successful with the help of two elves who finish his shoes during the night.

A strange little man helps the miller's daughter spin straw into gold for the king on the condition that she will give him her first-born child. Includes historical notes on the story's origins, versions from other countries, and the significance of names.