Step Gently Out

     Step Gently Out written by Helen Frost and illustrated by Rick Lieder is a beautifully created nonfiction picturebook for children to explore.  This story is written  in a lyrical poetic language.  Step Out Gently provides the reader with a close up view of the world outside of your house.  The author introduces the reader to the a honeybee, calipillar, cricket, praying mantis and more.  The story reveals what we will see if we take the time to be still and look closely you will discover the amazing small creatures that live amongst us.

     Rick Lieder is a painter, illustrator and photographer.  The illustrations for Step Out Gently are actually photographs taken of the small creatures.  He has done an excellent job in capturing the images of the creatures in their native habitat.  The photos are very rich in color and the images reflect lots of detail.

     On page 24 in Literature and the Child, the rules for poetry are clear.  The text should be compact with elegant language and the illustrations should go beyond the surface of the poem's meaning.  Step Out Gently also meet other guidelines such as; easy to follow structure, include interesting and easily comprehendible works, and use of creative syntax that utilizes poetic devices effectively.

     I enjoyed reading and looking at the pictures within this book.  The story is reflected from the photos.  I like how the author was able to come up with the perfect phrase to relate to the picture.  I enjoyed the story, Step Out Gently, so much that I had to go outside and watch the ant travel through the dirt and grass.

     This book is recommended for children three to five.  I believe this book is valuable for all ages.  So much can be learned by reading Step Out Gently.  This book opens the eyes of the readers and encourages observation of the creatures that we share the world with.  This book should be shared with students around spring time.



Motivational Activities:
1.  After reading the book, take the students outside for five minutes to observe their surroundings.  Have the children share their observation of one small creature.

2. Share the, Just Garden Insects, video with the students. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=fkZOnOfidMs
Next, have the students name the different insects and describe what they were doing.


Readers Response Questions:
1.  What small creature was crawling on "a single blade of grass"?
2.  Does a moth rest with its wings open or closed?
3.  What creature was "splashed with morning dew"?
4.  Why do you think the author chose the title, Step Out Gently?
5.  Did you like the book? Explain.


References:

Frost, Helen. (2012).  Step Gently Out. Somerville, MA, Candlewick Press.

Galda, L., Cullinan, B.E., & Sipe, L.R. (2011).  Literature and the Child.  (7th ed., pp. 12, 24).  Belmont:  Wadsworth Pub Co.

Pilarchik,  Gary.  Just Garden Insects. You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=fkZOnOfidMs