
Set against the quiet grandeur of an ancient Swiss castle perched on a mountain ridge, the story introduces the lively Bergmann family as they settle into the shadow of the old stone walls. The children—brash Bruno, gentle Mea, witty Kurt, dutiful Lippo, and the youngest, sprightly Mäzli—bring a cascade of personalities that animate the valley’s sleepy days. Their mother, a compassionate widow, watches over them with a steady hand, offering a warm home amid the whispering pines and distant swallows.
When a mysterious black bird appears at the castle’s shuttered windows, the siblings’ curiosity ignites a playful quest for answers. Their attempts to coax the enigmatic watchman, Mr. Trius, into revealing the secrets of the silent tower spark lively banter and a series of gentle misadventures. Through these early escapades, the tale captures the charm of childhood wonder, the comfort of family bonds, and the timeless allure of Alpine life, promising listeners a heart‑warming glimpse into a world where generosity and humor guide every step.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (347K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Suzanne Shell, Gwidon Naskrent, Tom Allen and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.
Release date
2003-11-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1827–1901
Best known for creating Heidi, this Swiss writer turned memories of mountain life into stories that have charmed generations of young readers. Her work blends warmth, homesickness, and a deep love of the natural world.
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