The Tortoise, the Hare, and Uncle Jonathan

The Tortoise, the Hare, and Uncle Jonathan

by

Josie Peterson

(age 12)

You've all heard the story of the Tortoise and the Hare, but I bet you never knew there was another contestant in the race! The Story goes like this . . . . .

There once was a speedy Hare who bragged about how fast he could run. Tired of hearing him boast, the tortoise challenged him to a race. Uncle Jonathan loved to run and so when he heard about the race, he decided he would challenge the tortoise AND the hare.

All the animals in the forest came to watch. Hare ran down the road for a while and then paused to rest. He looked back and saw the Tortoise slowly crawling to the first marker, but wait! Uncle Jonathan was right behind him! The Hare took off, trying very hard to stay in front of Jonathan but as hare neared the finish line, he collapsed, out of breath and exhausted. Uncle Jonathan continued on and the Hare sat trying to catch his breath. Jonathan crossed the finish line easily then turned to see even the tortoise had caught up to the Hare. The Hare tried so hard to get up and go, but he was too tired. The animals cheered loudly for Uncle Jonathan and congratulated the Tortoise.

The Beaver called for silence. "It is time to crown the winners. First, Uncle Jonathan, second the Tortoise, and in last place, the Hare". Everyone cheered as Uncle Jonathan was handed the trophy. He watched as Tortoise climbed the steps to get his medal. When the medal was put on Tortoise's neck, a bird reporter flew up and asked, "How do you think Uncle Jonathan won the race? Did he run fast or did he run steady?" The Tortoise said, "You don't have to be fast, you don't have to be steady, if you run like Uncle Jonathan, you'll always win the race!"


(original and unedited)



If you are between the ages of 4-14,(or know someone who likes to write stories)I would like to post your story here. Send me an email. I'd love to read your story!

Signed,

Wiggles the Polliwog