Citation: Silverman, E., & Karas, G. B. (2000). Follow the Leader. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
Ages: 0-6
Grades: Toddlers – Kindergarten
Description: Silverman’s Follow the Leader is the story of two brothers who play “follow the leader” with each other. The book begins with a discussion of who can be the leader first, with the oldest brother assuming the role. The children play several rounds of the game, and then the younger brother becomes the leader. Much of the text in Silverman’s book is the instructions of the game: “Hop when I hop./Skip when I’m skipping./Stop when I stop./Trot like a pony./Squat like a frog./Leap like a rabbit over this log.” The brother’s story and game is accompanied by sketches of the children doing each action.
Uses: Silverman’s Follow the Leader is ideal for an active storytime with toddlers and preschoolers. The direct nature of the text in the story invites readers and listeners to play follow the leader along with the brothers. Librarians and teachers can read the story, and invite children to do the actions as the book as read. The story can then be followed with a game of storytime follow the leader, where the librarian or different children take turns being the leader.
Review Sources:
Heppermann, C. M. (2000). Follow the Leader. Horn Book Magazine, 76(5), 558.
Fletcher, C. (2000). Follow the Leader. Booklist, 447.
MacMillan, K. K. (2000). Follow the Leader (Book Review). School Library Journal, 46(10), 137.
Tags: brothers, games