The Incredible Life of Balto
on Goodreads (260)
What’s inside...
Most people know the story of Balto, the world famous dog who led his dogsled team through a blizzard to deliver a lifesaving serum to the stricken people of Nome, Alaska, in 1925. Balto shot to instant stardom—a company named dog food after him, a famous sculptor erected a statue of him that stands in Central Park to this day, and the dog even starred in his own Hollywood movie. But what happened to Balto after the hoopla died down? With a lively, informative text and humorous, vibrant illustrations, Meghan McCarthy captures the extraordinary life of Balto beyond his days as a celebrity.
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Balto
Gunnar Kaasen
Discussion points
Why do you think Balto was considered a hero?
What qualities did Balto show that helped him succeed in his journey?
How did Balto’s journey change the lives of the people he helped?
What would you have done if you were in Balto’s situation?
How do you think the story of Balto can inspire people today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Balto’s environment, discussing the challenges and decisions they might face.
Highlight the traits of perseverance and courage shown by Balto, linking them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Examine together the impact of Balto's actions on the community he helped, emphasizing the importance of helping others.
Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the significance of teamwork and leadership with your child.
Promote a deeper understanding by asking your child how stories of past heroes can inspire modern-day actions and kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Balto, the sled dog, demonstrates remarkable bravery and tenacity as he leads his team through harsh conditions to deliver medicine. This is shown through his determination to push forward despite the severe weather and obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face challenges head-on and not give up easily, whether it be in completing a difficult school assignment or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Leadership
Explanation: Balto's role as the lead dog highlights the importance of working together and leading by example. His ability to guide and motivate his team is central to the story's successful outcome.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperation and taking initiative in group tasks or team sports, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The mission to deliver the medicine is driven by a deep concern for the sick children in Nome, illustrating the impact of empathy and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of caring for others' wellbeing and can be encouraged to help friends or siblings in need, promoting altruistic behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Pays Off
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Balto persists in his daunting journey, and his perseverance is rewarded when the medicine is successfully delivered.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to continue working towards their goals, regardless of the obstacles they might encounter, and understand that persistence is often key to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Quick Thinking
Explanation: Balto's ability to make swift decisions during critical moments of the journey demonstrates the necessity of quick, effective thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to make thoughtful choices quickly, especially in situations that require immediate action, such as during emergencies or unexpected challenges.