The Hare and the Tortoise
A confident hare races a steady tortoise in a fable about pace and persistence.
A story to read together
The Hare and the Tortoise
Take your time. Let the story unfold.
A speedy hare liked to boast about how fast he could run. One day he teased a tortoise for moving slowly. The tortoise stayed calm and suggested a race along the path to the old oak tree.
Ready, set, go
The other animals marked a start and finish line. At the signal, the hare raced ahead and soon disappeared around a bend. The tortoise began steadily, placing one foot in front of the other.
A steady journey
The tortoise kept moving. It passed the meadow, crossed the little bridge and climbed the gentle hill. It did not hurry, but it did not stop.
The finish line
The hare sprang up and ran as fast as he could. The tortoise was already near the finish. The animals cheered as the tortoise crossed the line first.
Practice and persistence
The tortoise said that steady effort had helped, but the hare’s speed was a real strength too. The hare promised to practice without boasting.
The end
After the final page
There is no single right answer. Invite young readers to notice, wonder and imagine.
Why does the hare feel confident about the race?
What helps the tortoise keep going?
What helped the tortoise keep going while the hare rested?
Make something: Choose a skill you are learning. Draw a small-step path that can help you practice steadily.
