The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac
2018 by
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
The Story of the Chinese Zodiac. As the new year approaches, each animal wants it to be named after them, but no one can agree. The Jade Emperor decides there should be a race to decide the winner, but who will win?
Why read this book
- Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
- Introduces cultural diversity through engaging folklore.
- Enhances understanding of sequence and ordinal numbers.
- Encourages curiosity about world traditions.
The Big Picture
- Showcases importance of perseverance and strategy.
- Encourages recognition of varied strengths and talents.
- Ideal for discussing triumphs over life's challenges.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases Chinese culture and traditions vividly.
- Features 12 unique animal characters with diverse traits.
- Encourages respect for cultural differences and history.
Age
2-7
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
beginner
Character Compass
Discussion points
Why do you think the Jade Emperor organized a race to decide the animals in the zodiac?
How do the different animals use their strengths and weaknesses during the race?
Which animal’s characteristics do you relate to the most and why?
What can we learn about teamwork from the way some animals helped each other in the story?
How do you think the story would change if another animal won the race?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight each animal’s unique abilities and traits as they appear in the story; discuss with your child how everyone has strengths and weaknesses.
Encourage your child to think about how the animals’ actions during the race reflect their personalities, and tie these observations to real-life scenarios.
Ask your child to imagine and describe an extra scene or a new ending to the story, which can foster creativity and a deeper connection with the narrative.
Discuss with your child the moral lessons from the story, such as perseverance, strategy, and honesty, and how these lessons can be applied in their everyday life.
Use the story as an opportunity to teach your child about Chinese culture and the significance of the Chinese Zodiac, enhancing both literary and cultural knowledge.
What parents love
Captivating story, beautifully illustrated.
Perfect introduction to Chinese culture for kids.
Engaging and educational, my child loves it!
Great for teaching kids about traits and teamwork.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Great Race,' various animals must work together to complete the race that determines their place in the Chinese zodiac. This cooperation highlights how teamwork is crucial to achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning that collaboration can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, the animals face various challenges but continue to strive towards their goal. This demonstrates the importance of persistence even when faced with difficulties.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to keep trying in their studies, hobbies, or personal challenges, understanding that perseverance often leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Celebrating diversity
Explanation: The different characteristics and abilities of each animal in the story show that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace differences in their classmates and friends, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: The actions of the animals during the race have direct consequences on their outcomes, teaching the principle of cause and effect.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the impact of their actions in daily life, encouraging them to make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Strategic thinking
Explanation: Some animals use clever strategies to advance in the race, illustrating the benefits of strategic thinking and planning ahead.
Real-World Application: Kids can be inspired to approach problems creatively and plan ahead in tasks like school projects or future goals.