Perfect Timing: How Isaac Murphy Became one of the World's Greatest Jockeys
What’s inside...
This picture-book biography by Trollinger, his debut title, celebrates a legendary African American jockey, focusing on his 'perfect timing' that launched his career at age 12. It highlights Murphy's rigorous training and thrilling races, depicted in detailed descriptions. The text is straightforward and engages both boys and girls. Lagarrigue's elegant, award-winning illustrations enhance the story with abstract acrylics that reflect a sense of historical reminiscence. The book includes scenes from Murphy's personal life and a historical note on African Americans in horse racing. The colorful scenes of horse racing are particularly compelling, capturing the speed and excitement of the competitions.
Age
6-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Isaac Murphy
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Isaac Murphy a great jockey?
How do you think Isaac felt when faced with challenges? What would you do in his situation?
What did you learn about perseverance and hard work from Isaac's story?
Isaac Murphy made history in his career. Why do you think it's important to remember him today?
If you could ask Isaac Murphy one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on Isaac’s character traits and discuss how these traits helped him in his career.
Prompt your child to consider the obstacles Isaac faced by asking how they would react in similar circumstances.
Highlight the themes of determination and resilience. Discuss how these qualities can be applied in your child’s everyday life.
Discuss the historical and cultural significance of Isaac Murphy’s achievements and their relevance to modern society.
Ask open-ended questions that allow your child to think creatively about what they would inquire from historical figures like Isaac Murphy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Isaac Murphy's journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of the world's greatest jockeys exemplifies perseverance. Despite numerous challenges, his determination drives him to achieve his dreams.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of staying determined and persistent in their tasks or goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Self-belief
Explanation: Isaac's confidence in his skills and potential, even when others doubted him, highlights the power of self-belief.
Real-World Application: This instills in children the understanding that believing in oneself is crucial when facing doubt or criticism from others.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The book showcases Isaac Murphy's ability to bounce back from setbacks, reinforcing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recover from failures and continue striving towards success, an essential skill in both school and life.
Example Lesson: Discipline
Explanation: Isaac Murphy's rigorous training regimen underpins his successes, emphasizing the importance of discipline.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of consistent effort and discipline in achieving long-term goals.
Example Lesson: Equality and Fairness
Explanation: Through his conduct and interactions, Isaac Murphy champions the principles of equality and fairness in a time of prevalent discrimination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of treating everyone with respect and fairness, irrespective of their backgrounds.