The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth

The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth is a great picture book to promote compassion, kindness, courage, and a growth mindset.

“There once was a boy named Nikolai who sometimes felt uncertain about the right way to act.” He has three questions he wants answering. “When is the best time to do things?… Who is the most important one?… What is the right thing to do?…”.

His friends the heron, monkey and dog give differing advice that just didn’t seem right. He asks the old turtle, Leo, the three questions. Dramatic events unfold that answer the questions for Nikolai.

“Remember, then that there is only one important time, and that time is now. The most important one is always the one you are with. And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side. This is why we are here.” Muth discusses Tolstoy’s original three questions in the endnote.

The Three Questions by Leo Tolstoy, adapted by Jon J. Muth
Illustrator: Jon J. Muth

Publisher: Scholastic (2009)

ISBN: 9780439199964

The Three Questions Resources

These resources relate to the book, author and illustrator. The number of resources varies book to book. Please check they are appropriate for your specific needs before using them with children. If you have any suggestions please get in touch!

Center for Philosophy for Children: The Three Questions Discussion Questions
Learning to Give: Kids Can Make the Difference lesson plan
Teaching Children Philosophy: Guidelines for Philosophical Discussion
Thoughtful Books: A Teachers Guide to The Three Questions
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Books by Jon J. Muth

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