Reading Champion: Run, Melina, Run: Independent Reading 14
Reading champion Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
In this engaging story, young Melina learns the power of perseverance and determination as she trains for her school's big race in Ancient Greece. Despite facing challenges, she discovers her own strength and realizes the importance of never giving up. Her exceptional running abilities make her wonder if she could compete in the famous games in Athens. The story is part of the Reading Champion series, which offers independent reading books for children to practice and reinforce their developing reading skills with fantastic, original stories accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Melina feels when she is running?
Can you tell me about a time when you worked really hard to achieve something like Melina?
Why do you think teamwork is important in Melina’s story?
What would you have done if you were in Melina's shoes during the race?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief overview of the book’s plot so your child knows what to expect.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to keep them engaged.
Encourage your child to think about the main character’s feelings and experiences by comparing them to their own.
Discuss the outcomes of the story and ask your child how they might use the lessons learned in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Melina consistently demonstrates resilience as she faces challenges in the book, pushing through despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to continue striving toward their goals, whether in sports, academics, or personal endeavors, even when they face difficulties.
Example Lesson: The importance of sportsmanship
Explanation: The way Melina interacts with other competitors, showing fairness and integrity, highlights good sportsmanship.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles of respect and fair play in group activities, learning to be gracious in both winning and losing situations.
Example Lesson: Setting and achieving personal goals
Explanation: Melina sets a clear goal for herself in the competition, which drives her actions and decisions throughout the story.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of setting personal goals and working systematically to achieve them, enhancing their focus and determination.