A little man with a stick in hand sits up in the tree

Riddle Me Ree

Riddle me, riddle me, ree;
A little man in a tree;
A stick in his hand,
A stone in his throat,
If you tell me this riddle
I’ll give you a groat.

This rhyme is a riddle

Can you guess what is the answer?

Show Answer

🍒 A CHERRY! 🍒
Good job. Here is your groat! 🪙

Listen as male British:

Listen as female Australian:

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Posted in All Rhymes, Historical & Traditional, Mother Goose Classics, Nature & Seasons

Tagged coin, little man, riddle, stick, throat, tree

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Meaning

This rhyme is a classic riddle that uses a series of metaphorical clues to describe a common, natural object. The verse’s opening line sets the stage for a challenge to the listener. The clues build a personified image: a “little man” who is found in a “tree,” holding a “stick,” and has a “stone in his throat.” The final two lines offer a clear reward for solving the puzzle. The rhyme is a clever and playful challenge to the imagination, using simple language to paint a fantastical image that has a very literal answer.

Origin

The rhyme is an old English traditional riddle poem, found in folklore and nursery rhyme collections dating back centuries. Such riddle-rhymes were part of oral culture, often used in children’s games and teaching.

Time Period

The rhyme has been passed down since at least the 17th or 18th century, remaining popular due to its simplicity and engaging form.

Why It Became Popular

Its rhythmic, rhyming structure makes it easy to memorize and recite. The riddle format encourages thinking and interaction, ideal for educational and entertainment purposes.

Structure and Style

Meter: Simple rhythmic lines suited to chanting
Rhyme Scheme: AABCCB (approximate)
Line Count: Six lines
Style Notes: Riddle format encouraging guessing

Themes

Riddling and guessing games
Nature and fruit imagery
Childhood play and reward

Language Notes

Terms like “groat” reflect historical currency and the social context of offering small bets or prizes. The rhyme’s vivid metaphorical language uses simple yet evocative imagery.

Moral or Lesson

Beyond entertainment, the rhyme fosters observational skills, language development, and curiosity in children.

Historical or Cultural Notes

The rhyme is part of a broader tradition of riddle rhymes used for oral learning and social games. The monetary incentive (a groat) ties it to historical cultural practices of small wagers or prizes in folk games.

Notable Variants

Variants exist with slight changes in wording, substitution of objects, or extension with additional riddles.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Featured in many nursery rhyme anthologies, folklore collections, and children’s activity books. Occasionally adapted for educational rhyme games and storytelling.

Suggested Activities

Riddle Game: Recite and guess the rhyme in a group setting to promote critical thinking.
Creative Drawing: Illustrate the riddle’s images, such as the fruit with stem and pit.
Modern Adaptation: Write new riddles following the same rhyme and rhythm format.
History Discussion: Explore old currency like the groat and folk game traditions.

Riddle Me Ree

This rhyme is a riddle

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Riddle Me Ree

This rhyme is a riddle

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