The World's Longest Sock
on Goodreads (85)
What’s inside...
Experience the world's fiercest knitting competition in this lively book about community, cooperation, and two knitters who are determined to create the world's longest sock. In Chile, Nana Nina starts knitting a sock and forgets to stop, and soon it's won the world record for 'Longest Sock'! When Chuck, a lonely lumberman in New Zealand who also happens to be knitting a very long sock, sees Nina's news on the TV, he is determined to beat her world record. And he does! Thus begins a battle of the knittest to see who can hold onto the world record-for good. The world takes sides: Team Nina or Team Chuck. But will all the pressure cause them to unravel? This yarn about a competition out of control will charm the socks off readers of all ages and knitting abilities.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think you could do with the world's longest sock?
Why do you think the characters wanted to keep the sock growing?
How did the characters work together to make the sock longer?
What would you have done if you found a magical growing sock?
How do you feel about how the story ended and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own magical items and what they would do with them. Discuss themes of teamwork and determination from the book. Connect the story to real-life scenarios by asking how they work together with friends or family on projects. Use expressions and voice modulation to make the retelling lively and engage them in acting out parts of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story showcases animals from diverse backgrounds working together to knit the world's longest sock. Their cooperation highlights the importance of teamwork to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in play, learning to listen and value others' input.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters encounter various challenges while knitting the sock, such as running out of yarn. They solve these problems through innovative thinking and collaboration.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and to find solutions to obstacles they face in their daily lives, whether in their academic tasks or personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite facing setbacks, the characters persevere and continue knitting the sock. This persistence demonstrates the value of determination in achieving a goal.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their tasks, whether it be completing homework, learning a new skill, or building relationships with peers.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: The animals share their resources, like yarn and knitting tools, to create the sock. This act of sharing emphasizes the importance of generosity.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice sharing their toys, time, and abilities with others to foster a caring and inclusive community environment.