The Tortoise, Sam and the Hill

A proud runner mocks a slow friend and learns that steady effort beats a quick start.

Sam the squirrel was the fastest in the forest and loved to boast. One day, Sam laughed at Holly the hedgehog. β€˜You are so slow!’ Sam said. Holly said calmly, β€˜Slow, but I always get there.’

β€˜Let’s race to the top of the hill,’ said Holly. β€˜The winner gets a carrot cake.’ Sam laughed so hard. β€˜You’ll never beat me!’ But Holly only smiled.

The race began. Sam zoomed off, leaving Holly behind. Halfway up, Sam looked back. Holly was just a dot. β€˜I have plenty of time,’ Sam thought, and lay down for a nap.

Holly didn’t stop. Step by step, one foot after another, Holly plodded up the hill. Past the sleeping Sam. Past the rock. Past the old pine tree. Never stopping.

When Sam woke up, Holly was already at the top, holding a carrot cake. Sam dashed up, but too late. β€˜You won,’ said Sam, embarrassed. β€˜Slow and steady,’ smiled Holly. And Sam never boasted again.

πŸ’‘

The little lesson

Slow and steady wins the race.

Let’s talk about it

  • Who do you think would win?
  • Why did Sam stop?

Finish stories to collect Sam as a sticker in your Sticker Book.

More Fables stories

πŸ“œ Fables

The Tortoise, Toby and the Hill

A proud runner mocks a slow friend and learns that steady effort beats a quick start.

Ages 6–72 min
πŸ“œ Fables

Poppy and the Golden Axe

Poppy drops a tool in the river and is offered something much finer. Will she tell the truth?

Ages 8–92 min
πŸ“œ Fables

The Clever Omar

Omar is thirsty, but the water is too low in the jug. A clever idea saves the day!

Ages 3–52 min

You might also like

πŸ”¬ Little Scientists

Whoosh! Pippa Makes a Volcano

Pippa builds a volcano for the science fair, and the experiment goes bubbly wrong!

Ages 6–72 min
⚽ Football

Willow’s Ball Hog

Willow loves to dribble the ball all alone, until the team learns a secret.

Ages 6–72 min
πŸš‚ Trains, Boats & Balloons

Oscar the Rescue Boat

A small rescue boat sets out in the fog to guide lost fishermen home.

Ages 6–72 min