The Greatest Show on Earth
on Goodreads (25)
What’s inside...
Here we are at 4.6 billion years ago, and as we raise the curtain . . . the STORY OF LIFE is about to begin! (Yes, that's right - we're telling the story of the ENTIRE history of Planet Earth). Take your seats for the ENTIRE history of Planet Earth, as we take a whistle-stop tour from the beginning to the present day.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the circus show in the book and why?
How do you think the characters felt when the circus came to town?
What would you do if a circus like that came to our town?
How did the illustrations help tell the story of the circus?
If you could be any character from the book, who would you be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create an immersive reading environment by using expressive voices for different characters to make the story come alive.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discuss their drawing, focusing on why they chose that particular scene or character.
Use the book as a basis to explore real-world circuses, discussing the similarities and differences they see.
Connect the story to personal experiences by sharing your own memories of visiting a circus or seeing a performance, and ask your child if they would like to experience something similar.
Discuss the teamwork shown by the circus performers in the book and relate it to everyday scenarios like teamwork in family chores or school projects.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Greatest Show on Earth', various characters come together to put on a spectacular circus show, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to wonderful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Importance of creativity
Explanation: The book showcases characters who use their unique talents to create an entertaining show, emphasizing the power of imagination and innovation.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in creative activities such as drawing, building, or writing stories, helping them to express themselves and think innovatively.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters encounter various obstacles but manage to overcome them through perseverance and creative problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain persistent and resilient when facing difficulties in their own lives, whether it's dealing with a tough homework problem or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity
Explanation: The circus performers all have different skills and backgrounds, yet they all contribute to the success of the show, highlighting the strength found in diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect people's differences in their community, understanding that each person has unique qualities to offer.