The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen

On a cold New Year’s Eve, a poor, barefoot girl tries to sell matches in the snow but is ignored by passersby. As she lights her last matches to stay warm, she sees comforting visions—food, warmth, and her beloved grandmother—before quietly passing away. The plot is tragic and symbolic, contrasting harsh reality with inner hope. Andersen crafts a heart-wrenching tale of innocence, suffering, and transcendence. It’s a timeless story that evokes compassion and reflection.