The Boy and the Reindeer

The Boy and the Reindeer - Author : Aysel Banu YAVUZAL

Elias stepped off the train into a world of white. Snow covered everything, and the air smelled like pine trees and cold. He pulled his red parka close and grinned. This was his first visit to the north, and he could hardly wait to explore. His green backpack bounced as he walked toward the small village. 1

In the village, Elias met Aila, a tall guide with a long black braid. She wore a navy coat with white trim and snowshoes on her feet. "Welcome, Elias," she said warmly. "Would you like to meet our reindeer herd?" Elias nodded so fast his hat nearly flew off. He had never seen a real reindeer before. 2

Aila led Elias to a snowy meadow where the herd stood quietly. One young reindeer trotted over. It had soft grey-brown fur, a cream-colored chest, and small velvet antlers. A little brass bell jingled on its collar. "This is Moss," Aila said. "He's about your age in reindeer years." Elias held out his hand, and Moss sniffed it gently. 3

Moss nuzzled Elias's blue mitten, and Elias laughed. The young reindeer's dark eyes were calm and curious. "He likes you," said Nils, a cheerful guide with a grey-blond beard and an orange hat. "Reindeer are gentle if you move slowly and speak softly." Elias nodded and stood very still, letting Moss get to know him. 4

That evening, Nils told Elias about the herd's winter journey. "Reindeer must travel to find food," he explained. "The snow covers the ground, so they dig for lichen and moss underneath. They also move to stay safe from deep snow and strong winds." Elias listened with wide eyes. "Will they leave soon?" he asked. "Tomorrow at dawn," Aila said. 5

Before sunrise, Elias bundled up in his parka and boots. Aila and Nils were ready with their snowshoes and satchels. Moss stood with the herd, his bell jingling softly. "Stay close and move quietly," Aila told Elias. "The reindeer need calm to start their journey." Elias nodded and fell in step behind the herd. 6

The herd moved through the snowy forest like a slow river. Their hooves made soft crunching sounds, and their breath puffed in the cold air. Elias watched Moss trot beside him. "Why do they walk in a line?" he whispered. Nils smiled. "The leaders break the trail, so the others save energy. It's teamwork." Elias thought that was clever. 7

After a while, the herd stopped in a clearing. The reindeer pawed at the snow, digging down to the plants below. "They're finding food," Aila said. "Reindeer can smell lichen under the snow." Elias saw Moss dig with his small hooves and pull up a mouthful of green. "He's a good finder!" Elias said proudly, as if Moss were his own. 8

The journey continued over gentle hills. Sometimes the wind blew, and the reindeer huddled together for warmth. Elias pulled his hood tight. "They protect each other," Nils said. "The strong ones stand on the outside, and the little ones stay in the middle." Elias looked at Moss, safe among the herd. He felt glad they had each other. 9

As the sun began to set, Aila pointed to a narrow path between the trees. "We must keep this path clear," she said. "Reindeer use the same routes every year. If we block them, the herd gets confused and may not find food." Elias saw how the path was free of branches and rocks. He understood that people helped the reindeer by leaving the way open. 10

That night, they camped in a cozy cabin. Elias sat by the fire with Moss resting nearby. "I wish I could help the reindeer," Elias said. Aila smiled. "You already are. By walking quietly and respecting their space, you're helping. And when you go home, you can tell others about the wild places reindeer need." Elias nodded, feeling proud. 11

The next morning, Elias noticed a fallen branch blocking the narrow path. "We should move it," he said. Nils and Aila helped him lift it aside. Moss watched with curious eyes. "Good job, Elias," Nils said. "Small acts of care make a big difference." Elias grinned, his freckles crinkling. He felt like a real helper. 12

On the last day, the herd reached a wide valley where the snow was not too deep. "This is their winter home," Aila said. "They'll stay here until spring." Elias hugged Moss gently. "I'll miss you," he whispered. Moss nuzzled his cheek, and the brass bell jingled. Elias knew he would never forget this journey. 13

Back at the village, Elias said goodbye to Aila and Nils. "Thank you for teaching me," he said. "I learned that respecting animals means caring for their home and the wild places they need." Aila gave him a warm smile. "You're a true friend to the reindeer, Elias." He waved until the village was out of sight. 14

On the train home, Elias looked out at the snowy landscape. He thought of Moss and the herd, moving quietly along their safe paths. In his green backpack, he carried a small drawing of a reindeer with velvet antlers and a brass bell. He would show it to everyone and tell them about the winter journey. 15

When Elias got home, he told his family all about Moss and the migration. He explained how reindeer dig for food, huddle for warmth, and need clear paths to travel. "We must protect their home," he said. His family listened with wide eyes. Elias smiled, knowing that even far away, he could help the reindeer by sharing what he learned.