The Sneetches and Other Stories Theme of Pride

Just look at how high those Sneetch chins are set in the air. That's pride at its Seussiest. Thankfully, the Sneetches learn from their mistakes. The Zax? Not so much. Their pride comes in the form of stubbornness. They refuse to move because they intend to get where they are going the way that they want. But in the end, they get nowhere. Womp womp for them, lesson for us.

Questions and Answers

Questions the little ones might ask and how you might respond

Q: Why are the Sneetches so proud of their stars?
A: Because they have them when others don't. It's okay to be a little proud in the things that make you different. Just remember to also see the things you have in common.

Q: Why can't the North-Going Zax go another way? Or the South-Going Zax?
A: Oh, they can move any way they like. They just won't. Sometimes prideful people can't see the difference between the things they can't do, and the things they won't do. It causes all sorts of problems.

Q: How would you fix the Zax's problem?
A: We don't know if anyone but the Zax can fix their own problem. Teaching them how to say "please" and "thank you" couldn't hurt, though.