Final answer:
The leadership race in the story by Richard Wagamese involves Michael, an essay competition winner; Sasha, a top debater; and Giselle, a director of student productions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The contestants for leadership in the story “The animal people choose a leader” by Richard Wagamese are Michael, who won the essay competition; Sasha, the top debater; and Giselle, who directed several student productions. These characters represent the candidates for the award within the narrative. The context of this race for leadership is not about actual animals but likely uses animals metaphorically to represent different attributes or qualities of the candidates, much like in the fable of “The Man and the Lion.” Understanding their contributions, such as Michael's success in writing, Sasha's debating skills, and Giselle's direction of productions, can help determine whom among them would make the best leader.