Here's why:
* Magical Elements: While not overtly fantastical, the story features talking animals and houses made of unusual materials (straw, sticks, bricks).
* Moral Lesson: The story imparts a clear moral lesson about the importance of hard work and preparation.
* Traditional Storytelling: It follows a common fairy tale structure with a simple plot, relatable characters, and a clear resolution.
* Origin: While the exact origins are debated, it's generally considered a folk tale that was passed down orally for generations before being written down.
While it shares some elements with other genres, like animal fables or children's literature, its core characteristics firmly place it within the fairy tale genre.