The Zax (in Sneetches and Other Stories) by Dr. Seuss

10 pages. Random House, 1989.

There's bound to be trouble when a North-Going Zax meets a South-Going Zax. Each one thinks the other is in his way, and each refuses to move aside, because that would mean going east or west, and neither is willing to do that. They yell at each other righteously, but neither one will move, so neither can go anywhere. Highways and cities are built, and the highway has to include an overpass over the Zax, who haven't budged an inch. This story shows children quite clearly, and with humor, how silly people look when they're stubborn.

Ages: 3-8
Cultural Context: non-human