The master of magic and escape got his start trying to walk a tightrope! It took the young Harry Houdini more than a few tries (and falls) to learn how to stay up there. This fun fold-out book is full of exciting information about Houdini’s life and greatest tricks.
TALK IT OVER WITH YOUR KIDS
Look Closely
Who helps Harry to become a tightrope walker? What types of assistance does Harry receive from his various helpers?
Examine the illustrations. How can you tell that this story takes place in the late 1800s?
Look at the timeline and biography side of this book. Which of Harry’s accomplishments most impresses you? Why?
Your Turn
Can you describe a time when you needed to practice again and again in order to learn something? How did you feel when you accomplished your goals?
How do you think Harry’s mother and father felt as they watched Harry struggle to become a tightrope walker?
When you feel scared or frightened, how do you calm yourself down?
HANDS ON!
Walk the Line
We don’t recommend that you try walking on a clothesline in your backyard, the way Harry does in this story — but here’s a way to practice your balance skills more safely. Set up a balancing challenge on the ground!
Supplies: Masking or painter’s tape
Place a length of tape in a straight line on the floor. Practice walking heel-to-toe across the line without stepping off.
Now use tape to create a zigzagging line on the floor, and walk heel-to-toe on that without falling off.
Once you’ve mastered that, try walking backwards on first the straight line, then the zigzagging line!