Leaf Man
on Goodreads (2,713)
What’s inside...
Leaf Man is a whimsical children's picture book by Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator Lois Ehlert. It tells the story of Leaf Man, who is made of leaves and embarks on an adventure carried by the autumn winds. The beautifully illustrated story takes readers through various landscapes, all depicted using actual fall leaves, to showcase different animals and scenes. The book captures the natural world and celebrates children's rich imaginative life, making it a perfect read for young readers returning to school in the fall.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What journey do you think Leaf Man will go on next? Why?
Can you describe how the leaf man might be feeling throughout his adventures?
What kinds of leaves can you identify in the book? How do they differ in shape and color?
How does the changing scenery in the book reflect different parts of the story?
What would you create using leaves? Describe your own leaf art story.
Tip: Role play these questions
While exploring 'Leaf Man', ask your child to predict what might happen next, enhancing their imagination and anticipation skills.
Discuss the different types of leaves found in the book, perhaps even comparing them to leaves found in your own yard or nearby park.
Encourage your child to talk about the emotions they think Leaf Man might be feeling at various points in the story, fostering empathy and emotional awareness.
After reading, create a leaf art project together based on the techniques used in the book, reinforcing the themes and extending the reading experience into a hands-on activity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: In 'Leaf Man', the journey of the Leaf Man showcases a world crafted entirely from leaves, which encourages children to use their imagination.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using natural elements around them to create their own art or stories, fostering creativity in their everyday play.
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the intricate leaf illustrations invite kids to pay close attention to the details of different types of leaves.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice this skill by observing and identifying various leaves and plants in their environment, enhancing their scientific skills and appreciation for nature.
Example Lesson: Understanding Nature’s Cycle
Explanation: The story of 'Leaf Man' subtly teaches about the life cycle of leaves and their journey driven by the wind.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand and respect the natural changes and cycles in the environment, promoting environmental awareness from a young age.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As Leaf Man is taken wherever the wind blows, the story reflects the theme of adapting to changing circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of being flexible and adapting to new situations, whether they are moving to a new place, transitioning to a new school, or meeting new friends.