Stephanie witnesses the deterioration of her inner-city neighborhood and school. There are gangs and violence on the street, and chaos in the school. Stephanie decides to “light her candle” against the darkness. After convincing her two friends, they begin with one simple act of kindness.

This lovely tale tells the story of Princess Isabella, who is greatly loved by her parents—happy and carefree until she overhears girls making fun of her large nose and ears. Miserable and ashamed, she quits playing and hides in the palace. Nothing can sway Isabella’s feelings of ugliness and sadness until an old woman reminds her that giving love to others brings deep happiness.

The proud emperor loves to parade before his people with beautiful clothes. When a court official suggests paying the soldiers more money so they don’t have to beg for food, the furious emperor is ready to throw him in jail.

Little Red Riding Hood is a kind-hearted girl on her way to help her sick grandmother. Her mother warns her not to speak to strangers and to stay on the path as she travels through the forest, but a smooth-talking wolf makes Little Red Riding Hood forget her promise. While Little Red Riding Hood gathers flowers for her grandmother, the wolf uses her delay to devour the grandmother and set a trap for Little Red Riding Hood.