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Cheesy goodness

Updated: Apr 2

As parents, we find ourselves continuously trying to balance optimism and realism. We are our children's most enthusiastic cheerleaders, and want more than anything for our kids to achieve greatness, whether its winning a running race to the toilet or being victorious in a game of "Go Fish". The joy of winning is undeniable. At the same time, we need to prepare them for the real world where they don't win everything, may not make a team and will have set backs galore. C'est la vie! This topic is one of huge importance and one that is cleverly portrayed in this humorous book about an arrogant chunk of cheese!


The Big Cheese, written by Jory John, is a witty allegory about humility and empathy triumphing over obnoxious arrogance and a desperation to always be the best. The Big Cheese, descends from humble beginnings, but from the outset has his mind set on being the best. Nothing and no-one will stand in his way. When the annual cheese-cathlon comes around, The Big Cheese expects and brags about winning (all the events he's good at) again. However, the quiet, humble, and unassuming Wedge Wedgeman dethrones The Big Cheese in every event and causes him to have a colossal melt down! Only when he stops to have a conversation with Wedge on his way home, does The Big Cheese realises that there's more to life than winning. That the obsession with winning can mask the joy of participating. By looking outside himself and lifting up others when they win, builds empathy. This is a wonderfully charming story about exploration, identity and character growth complete with cheeky little puns and quirky illustrations.


This is the 7th book in Jory John and Pete Oswald's #1 New York Times bestselling picture book series - The Food Group. It dishes up lessons with laughs! Witty stories of food characters with a focus on self-reflection, acceptance and personal growth. Each story in the series is worthy of read and are invaluable resources for character building.


Title: The Big Cheese

Author: Jory John

Illustrator: Pete Oswald


What's to LOVE about this book:

  • The author skillfully strikes the balance between comedy and landing valuable lessons of personal growth. What's even more notable, is how his humour appeals to both young and old, with the inclusion of witty puns and a cheerful refrain.

  • The storyline is straightforward and does an excellent job of landing a message that is hard to swallow - losing can be good for you!

  • A stellar conversation starter on:

    • the difference between being confident and obnoxious,

    • the power and reward of listening to and supporting others,

    • trying new things is harder (but often more rewarding) than doing the same things over and over again, just because you're good at it,

    • the thrill of winning is fleeting, and but the joy of and friendships found in participating will last forever.

  • The illustrations are fun, colourful and amusing taking the reader on an exuberant journey of self discovery with The Big Cheese.


Favourite quote:

"That day, I realized something: Maybe it didn't matter if I wasn't the best at everything. In fact, perhaps it was healthy for me to lose for once."


Messages:

  • The importance of humility as a character strength. By taking the focus away from ourselves, we learn to appreciate what others have to offer. Cheering on our friends' successes can be just as rewarding as our own victories. Being humble opens up opportunities for happiness and friendship and improves our mindset.

  • No one likes being around a person who is self-centred, arrogant, and boastful.

  • We will encounter many setbacks and lose numerous times in our lives - if we let the disappointment and frustration consume us, we'll be miserable forever.

  • That winning feeling is temporary, the joy from participating is everlasting. The joy is found in trying new things, going to different places, and spending time with people.

  • If you don't try new things because you're scared of failing, you miss out on important life lessons (e.g. learning from mistakes, learning to be self-reliant, overcoming fears, and enhancing self belief).

  • Don't be afraid to make changes to your behavior and outlook. It's never too late for personal character growth!


If the messages in this book warrant a purchase, here is link to buy it:


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