The Brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm were German academics, philologists, cultural researchers, lexicographers and authors who collected folklore in the 19th century.  These are the popularizers of such tales as Cinderella, The Frog Prince, Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty and Snow White. Their first collection, Children’s and Household Tales was published in 1812.

The Fisherman and His Wife  was collected by the Brothers Grimm as tale no. 19.  It is really more of an anti-fairy tale or fable.  The story is meant to convey that materialism does not itself bring contentment.  Conversely, a happy person will be just as content with little as much.  In a manner of speak it is a form of Christian allegory.

You may read this fairy tale here:

http://www.bartleby.com/17/2/10.html  A

Alternatively, you may listen to this tale in an audiobook format here: