Eat My Dust! Henry Ford's First Race (Step into Reading)
Step into reading. A step 1 book Series
What’s inside...
It’s 1901 and Henry Ford wants to build a car that everyone can own. But first he needs the money to produce it. How will he get it? He enters a car race, of course! Readers will love this fast-paced, fact-based story! From the Trade Paperback edition.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Henry Ford
Alexander Winton
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Henry Ford to keep improving his car designs, even after failures?
How did the race between Henry Ford and Alexander Winton change people's view on automobiles?
What characteristics do you think are important for an inventor or innovator to have?
How do you think Henry Ford felt during the race and what would you have felt in his place?
Why is perseverance important in achieving goals, based on Henry Ford's story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to personal experiences where they tried something challenging.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and how it can lead to success, drawing examples from both the book and real-life scenarios.
Ask your child to imagine they are inventing something; have them describe what it would be and what challenges they might face.
Highlight the historical context of the story, explaining how innovations like Ford's impacted the world.
Use expressive reading to make the race and other exciting moments in the book come alive for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Henry Ford's determination to pursue his passion for automobiles, despite initial failures and challenges, demonstrates the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies, even when facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Innovation
Explanation: The story highlights Henry Ford's innovative spirit, as he builds a race car and competes in a race, which ultimately led to the founding of the Ford Motor Company.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and explore new ways to solve problems or create things in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Sportsmanship
Explanation: Despite the fierce competition, Henry Ford exhibits fairness and integrity during the race.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of playing fair and respecting others, whether they are participating in sports or other competitive activities.
Example Lesson: Learning from failure
Explanation: Henry Ford uses his initial failures as learning opportunities, which eventually lead to his success.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to view their own mistakes and setbacks as chances to learn and grow, rather than as defeats.
Example Lesson: Following one's passion
Explanation: Henry Ford's journey in the book illustrates how following one's passion can lead to significant achievements and fulfillment.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore and pursue activities they are passionate about, which can lead to personal satisfaction and success.