The Wunkle Punkle Gnome

This is a beloved story told over the years by my mother. My mother had ten children and told us this fable-type story to help instill honesty, integrity, and self-reliance.
Dearest children,
This story came about long ago because of the special love I have for each of you. It is with that same love I attempt today to put this story on paper that you might tell it to your children.
--Granny Nina Staples (1996)