The Tortoise, Toby and the Hill

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

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

β€˜Let’s race to the top of the hill,’ said Kit. β€˜The winner gets a golden acorn.’ Toby laughed so hard. β€˜You’ll never beat me!’ But Kit only smiled.

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

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

When Toby woke up, Kit was already at the top, holding a golden acorn. Toby dashed up, but too late. β€˜You won,’ said Toby, embarrassed. β€˜Slow and steady,’ smiled Kit. And Toby 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 Toby stop?

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

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