How to Be Extraordinary: questions to ask and activities to try
Fifteen real people, fifteen different ways to be extraordinary. How to Be Extraordinary is an inspiring book of true stories.
What age is it for? How to Be Extraordinary is best for ages 5–8. Good for: Real people who were extraordinary in different ways.
How to Be Extraordinary (Rashmi Sirdeshpande and Annabel Tempest)
- Age
- 5-8
- Best for
- Real people who were extraordinary in different ways
Read one story at a time. Talk about what made each person extraordinary, and what your child might do.
What it helps with
- Different talents and personalities
- Real-life role models
- Kindness and courage
- Ambition
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Whose story did we read?”
- “What made them extraordinary?”
- “Was it easy for them?”
- “Who is most like you?”
- “What do you want to do?”
- “How could you be extraordinary today?”
5-minute activities to try together
Extraordinary me
Make a page about your child in the style of the book.
Hero hunt
Find an extraordinary person in your own community.
Free printables: How to Be Extraordinary worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History (Vashti Harrison)
- Best for
- Bold Black women who changed the world
- Age
- 5-8
Hidden Figures (Margot Lee Shetterly and Laura Freeman)
- Best for
- Four Black women who helped NASA reach space
- Age
- 5-8
All the Ways to Be Smart (Davina Bell and Allison Colpoys)
- Best for
- Celebrating every kind of talent
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.