Giant Steps

Giant Steps by Elizabeth Loredo is a delightful and imaginative early chapter book that invites young readers into a world where colossal giants engage in a global game of tag. The premise is simple yet captivating: four giants sprint to the far corners of the earth, while one perpetually "unlucky" fifth giant is left to count. This setup creates a humorous and fast-paced narrative, as the giants' enormous strides take them from the North Pole to the South, and across vast oceans. The book handles its lighthearted theme with a playful tone, focusing purely on the joy and silliness of the game. There are no sensitive topics, just pure, unadulterated fun. The emotional arc is consistently cheerful and energetic, starting with the excitement of the game and maintaining that high-spirited mood throughout. This book is specifically for children who enjoy imaginative play, silly scenarios, and a touch of adventure. It's perfect for a child who loves to run and play games, or one who is curious about the world and different places. A parent might reach for this book when looking for a quick, engaging read-aloud that encourages laughter and sparks imagination, perhaps before playtime or as a fun bedtime story. Parents don't need much preparation for this book; it's straightforward fun. They might point out the different geographical locations the giants visit, if illustrated, to add an educational layer. Younger children (4-6) will enjoy the simple premise, the humor of the giants, and the idea of a global game. Older children (7-8) might appreciate the concept of the "unlucky" counter and the imaginative scale of the game. What makes it different from other books is its unique blend of a familiar childhood game with the grand, fantastical scale of giants traveling the entire world, offering a fresh take on imaginative play.