Gnome Descriptions
By Matt Terrace
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Sprig 2007

Gnomes are strange mythical creatures that most people remember from their childhoods. These creatures are usually very tricky and mischievous. They are usually of a small stature and are masters of theft and stealth. Gnomes in todays world are often associated with childrens stories, fairy takes and in some instances even hallucinogenic drugs. Gnomes are imaginary creatures and are usually up to no good.

Gnomes can live in many different places. Gnomes generally live in a large dense forest and depending on what lives in the forest is what decides what type of home the gnomes live in. They sometimes live in tree houses of some sort that are high atop some of the very large trees in the great forest. They also sometimes live in vast caves and tunnel systems that run underground.

In the town of Hamelin during 1284, the gnomes being the mischievous little creatures that they are might sneak into peoples homes and steal items they like or need to furnish their caves or tree houses. They steal little knick knacks such as silverware, small keepsakes and other personal items. Some people think that because they are so mischievous and sneaky the gnomes must have played a part in the disappearance of the 130 children from Hamelin in 1284. The Pied Piper may not have been the only culprit in the crime!

For Reflection:
Do you think the Gnomes could have played a part in the disappearance of the children? Can you write a story describing this?

Or, can you interview the towns people to see if they saw any Gnome activity? Then you could write an article for the local newspaper, sharing what you find out in your investigations.