Bobby the Bear and the Great Race
“We all want to win, but we must never cheat.” In a world growing ever more competitive, people sometimes will do anything to win, even if it means sacrificing a friendship. Bobby the Bear and the Great Race explores the important themes of sportsmanship and integrity. Bobby and his forest friends decide to hold a race to find out who is the fastest animal in the forest, and the results of the race prove that playing fairly and honestly is the only way to preserve trust in a friendship.
The story Bobby the Bear and the Great Race shows the damage that can be caused if someone cheats—losing friendship, trust, and integrity. Tanya the Tiger learns, like the readers will, that playing fairly and honestly is more important than winning and losing.
“I can’t do it!” It’s a sentiment that many children have expressed. The idea or belief that you can’t do something can ruin confidence in a student. In Bobby the Bear Helps Build a Nest, readers can explore the theme of persistence alongside Bobby. Ollie, a baby owlet, is trying to build a special nest for his sister, Olive. After failing at the task, however, Ollie throws a tantrum. He is overheard by Bobby the Bear. Bobby, a big brother and mentor to many of his forest friends, attempts to console his little friend. Bobby explains that we sometimes fail, but it’s okay. He even provides an example to Ollie about a time he failed five times to build his first bed. Bobby encourages Ollie not to give up and not to allow adversity to defeat him. Another element added to the story is Bobby’s patience, generosity, and kindness towards his friend Ollie. Parents, teachers, guardians, older siblings, and friends must remember to be patient, generous, and kind when trying to help a young person struggling with failure. Too many times, people get upset or angry. This only makes someone want to give up more.
Bobby teaches children not to give up with adversity strikes. He also teaches others to be patient and kind when helping someone struggling with failure.
Bobby the Bear Helps Build a Nest explores the common theme of persistence and, at the same time, touches on the theme of patience.