Start with this publisher trailer for The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors - it will give you a good idea about the tone and humour of this story.
I was slightly amazed to read that the origins of this game can be traced back to Chinese Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).
In this 'legend' rock, paper and scissors are looking for a worthy opponent. Each player in turn proclaims their challenge beginning with Rock.
Rock lives in the Kingdom of Backgarden
Rock versus Clothespeg
Rock versus Apricot
"And yet, smooshing you has brought me no joy."
Paper lives in the Empire of mum's study
Paper versus computer printer
Paper versus a half eaten pack of trail mix
Both are defeated "And so, with heavy heart, Paper departed the Empire of mum's study."
Scissors lives in the tiny village of Junk Drawer
Scissors versus roll of tape
Scissors versus chicken nuggets
Then one day our three heroes meet in the great cavern of Two-Car Garage. Who will win? Will each find happiness? How can a friendship be forged?
This is an interesting book. On one level it is quite violent in a cartoon sense but it is also very funny and the final resolution is very satisfying. Here is a set of teaching notes. I would also make use of the the Wikipedia page with older students. Playing by the book has a set of songs you could use with this book too. Watch this video to hear the author talking about his book.
You might recognize the illustrator Adam Rex from one of my favourite books Billy Twitters and his blue whale problem.
With wacky characters such as dinosaur-shaped chicken nugget warriors and a half-eaten bag of trail mix and illustrations that combine the real and the surreal, there is never a dull moment. School Library Journal
Everyone wins! Kirkus
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