The Tortoise and the Hare
What’s inside...
In this Classic Fable in Rhythm and Rhyme, a speedy rabbit challenges a slow turtle to a race. Who will win? Find out when you sing along to The Tortoise and the Hare! Includes online music access.
Why read this book
- Classic fable instills valuable lessons on perseverance.
- Engaging illustrations captivate and spark imagination.
- Encourages discussions on patience and hard work.
- Suitable for young readers and shared reading times.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the tortoise continue moving forward, even though he was much slower than the hare?
How do you feel about the hare deciding to take a nap during the race?
Why do you think the story ended the way it did with the tortoise winning?
Can you think of a time when you kept going even though something was difficult?
What does this story teach us about how we should treat others who might be different from us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of both the tortoise and the hare, discussing how each character might have felt at different points in the story.
Use expressive reading to highlight the contrasts in pace and attitude between the tortoise and the hare, making the story livelier and more engaging.
Discuss the moral of the story and how it can be applied in real-life situations, such as at school or in sports, reinforcing the values of perseverance and humility.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can serve as a visual conversation starter about the lessons learned from the story.
Compliment your child’s insights during the discussion to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence pays off
Explanation: The tortoise's slow but steady pace ultimately leads him to win the race, despite the hare's natural speed advantage.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of consistent effort in achieving goals, teaching them to stay diligent in tasks like homework or chores, even if they seem initially daunting.
Example Lesson: Overconfidence can lead to setbacks
Explanation: The hare's overconfidence in his speed leads him to take a nap during the race, costing him the victory.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of humility and the risks of underestimating tasks or opponents, helping them approach challenges with a balanced perspective.
Example Lesson: Slow and steady wins the race
Explanation: The story emphasizes that being consistent and perseverant often leads to success, as shown by the tortoise's victory over the faster but careless hare.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be patient and consistent in their efforts, whether in learning a new skill, building relationships, or any other long-term goal.