Chicken Little and the Very Long Race
Chicken Little Series
on Goodreads (73)
What’s inside...
Chicken Little is determined to compete in a big race despite being underestimated by everyone around him. He trains with perseverance and ingenuity to prove them wrong. Meanwhile, in another story, Chicken Little distrusts the popular methods of the local-record holder, Hare, in a marathon. She observes her brood getting swayed by Hare's fancy equipment and decides to either expose his phony methods or compete herself. Both tales highlight the themes of underestimation, determination, and self-belief.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Chicken Little wanted to join the race, and how did it make him feel?
What qualities do you think make a good friend, based on how the characters treated each other?
How did the other animals help Chicken Little during the race, and what does that teach us about teamwork?
What would you have done if you were in Chicken Little’s place during the race?
How do you think the story would change if Chicken Little chose not to race?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters’ actions, helping them connect personally with the story.
Discuss the value of perseverance and teamwork as demonstrated in the book, relating it to real-life experiences of your child.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios within the story to foster creative thinking.
Highlight the emotions of the characters at various points in the story and ask your child how they would feel in similar situations, enhancing their empathy skills.
Use encouragement and praise to make the discussion enjoyable and affirming, fostering a positive reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Chicken Little participates in a race despite not being the fastest, demonstrating determination and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of trying their best and not giving up, even when facing difficult tasks at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Throughout the race, Chicken Little learns to embrace his own pace and abilities, illustrating the value of self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to appreciate their unique qualities and strengths, fostering a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Good sportsmanship
Explanation: Chicken Little shows respect and encouragement to other racers, highlighting the principles of good sportsmanship.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to be respectful and supportive teammates, whether in academic group projects or playground activities.
Example Lesson: Setting personal goals
Explanation: Chicken Little sets a personal goal to finish the race, which teaches the importance of setting and striving towards personal objectives.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of setting personal goals and the steps needed to achieve them, helping them to manage tasks and expectations in real life.