Counting in the Garden
PreS-Gr 2—Numbers 1 through 12 are introduced in this concept book set in a vegetable garden. The counting and objects will entertain children, but it is the illustrations that will truly captivate. After each number is introduced, readers turn the page to see an overview of the area that reinforces what has been introduced so far. For example, "1 onion, with many, many peels" features a single onion. Following "2 tasty turnips, deep inside the ground," a wordless spread shows one onion and two turnips. This cumulation continues after each number, concluding with "12 tall tulips/in a long yellow row." While this format is an excellent early literacy tool and children will love pointing out each addition, it does hinder the narrative flow and makes for a choppy read in places. Still, the combination of garden, counting, and colorful art is group-sharing gold. Pair this title with Katherine Ayres's Up, Down, and Around (Candlewick, 2007) for a winning garden-themed storytime.—Joy Poynor, Rogers Public Library, AR--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.