Once upon a time in the city of Naples, there was a little girl named Maria who loved to grow plants. One day she found a common basil seed and decided to plant it in her garden. As she took care of it every day, the basil plant grew tall and strong. Maria was so proud of her basil plant that she started to share cuttings with her friends and neighbors. Soon, everyone in Naples had a basil plant in their garden and it became very common! Maria was happy to see her basil plant bring joy to others and she knew that it would always be a special part of her city.

Reflections

1. What did Maria do with the basil seed she found?
2. Why did everyone in Naples end up growing basil?
3. How did Maria feel when she saw her basil plant bring joy to others?
4. Can you think of another plant that is common in your city or town?
5. Why do you think basil became so popular in Naples?