DK Discoveries: Everest
#5 in DK Discoveries Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Trace the extraordinary journeys to the top of the highest mountain on Earth, including the tragic attempt by Mallory and Irvine in 1924. Meet the team that finally took Hillary and Tenzing to the summit of Everest in 1953. Understand the fascination of Everest and why it continues to challenge mountaineers today, pushing them to the limits of human endurance. This is the story of mountaineering from the early days of mountain exploration by scientists to modern assaults using the latest high-tech equipment. It features an account of Mallory and Irving's ill-fated attempt in 1924, the eventual conquest of Everest in 1954 by John Hunt's expedition, and Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing's heroic assault. There are also fact-finder pages on how mountains are formed and mountaineering milestones.
Discussion points
What do you think it takes to climb a mountain like Everest?
How do you think climbers prepare for such a challenging journey?
What can we learn from the climbers’ teamwork and perseverance?
How do the climbers’ actions inspire you to overcome challenges in your own life?
Why is it important to respect and protect natural environments like Everest?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start a conversation by asking about their favorite part of the book and why. Encourage your child to describe the climber's emotions, which will help them develop empathy. Use visual cues from the book’s illustrations to discuss the challenges of climbing Everest. Connect the story to real-world activities, like hiking or climbing, to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the climbers' experiences. Reinforce the importance of perseverance and teamwork highlighted in the book through personal stories or family experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The narrative highlights the challenges faced by climbers on Everest, demonstrating that reaching the summit requires persistence and hard work.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it's completing a school project or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The climbers must work together and support each other to achieve their common goal, emphasizing the value of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of cooperating with others, helping them in group activities or team sports.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The book discusses the natural environment of Everest and the need to maintain its integrity, teaching readers to value and protect the world around us.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be environmentally conscious, promoting actions like recycling or taking care of plants at home or in the community.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Climbing Everest requires immense bravery. The book depicts various daunting scenarios that climbers must face with courage.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and step out of their comfort zones in challenging situations at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Preparation and planning
Explanation: Successful Everest expeditions involve meticulous preparation and strategic planning, highlighted throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of preparing and planning before embarking on any task, enhancing their organizational skills and foresight in daily activities.