Max the Champion
on Goodreads (43)
What’s inside...
Max is mad about sport. As he gets up, has breakfast and heads off to school he is dreaming of competing in world class sporting events. In his real day he and his class win the school football match, and in his imagination he and his friends are winning the World Cup. This is a lively and fun approach to sport, and a very inclusive picture book showing disabled children and children without disabilities mixing and enjoying different sports in a natural way. The sports include football, rugby, athletics, cricket, diving, discus throwing, cycling plus at least one US sport, probably baseball.
Discussion points
What challenges did Max face and how did he overcome them?
How did Max's friends and family support him throughout the story?
What sports would you like to try, and why?
How do you think playing sports can help us in other areas of our lives?
What does being a champion mean to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences with sports or challenges, and ask your child to relate these experiences to Max’s journey.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events, highlighting moments where Max feels triumphant or challenged.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and teamwork as demonstrated in the book, asking your child to cite specific examples.
Prompt your child to think about inclusion and friendship, reflecting on how diverse characters in the book interact and support each other.
Celebrate your child’s ambitions by discussing the sports or activities they are excited to try, and how they can be a champion in their own unique way.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Inclusivity
Explanation: Max, the main character, wears glasses and uses an inhaler but is depicted actively participating and enjoying sports, promoting an inclusive image of children with disabilities.
Real-World Application: Children learn that everyone, regardless of physical differences, should be included in all activities. This can foster inclusion in school and play environments.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Throughout the book, Max shows determination in sports despite the challenges posed by his glasses and inhaler, reflecting persistence.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persist in their pursuits, whether academic or extracurricular, despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Equality
Explanation: Max competes on equal grounds with his peers, which showcases that everyone deserves a fair chance, regardless of their physical condition.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to treat everyone equally and fairly, promoting a sense of justice and equality in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Healthy Lifestyle
Explanation: Max's active lifestyle promotes the importance of staying active and participating in sports for a healthy body.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in physical activities and understand the importance of fitness from a young age.
Example Lesson: Supportive Community
Explanation: The book illustrates the support Max receives from friends and family, creating a positive environment that enables him to thrive.
Real-World Application: Teaches the value of a supportive network, encouraging children to be supportive peers and to appreciate the support they receive from others.