One Child, One Seed: A South African Counting Book
PreSchool-Grade 2-Cave has taken the idea of a counting book one step beyond, and turned it into a fascinating social-studies lesson, in the best sense. Children count from 1 to 10 with Nothando as she plants a pumpkin seed that grows to bear fruit for a delicious stew. "One child, one seed. Two hands to plant the seed. Three ways to help it grow," the text reads. But that is just the beginning in this gem of a book. In a harmonious partnership of narrative and crisp, beautifully composed photographs that show the individuality of each person, readers get a glimpse into the life of an extended family living in a rural South African community. Spreads consist of a left-hand counting page where the story of the seed is told through a minimal text and color photograph that clearly shows the objects to be counted. On the opposite page, the narrative continues with a line of large-print text, along with a small photo and additional text offering further details about the life of this community, including games, transportation, and the local store. The only quibble is that Nothando and her extended family are not shown enjoying the long-awaited feast. The recipe for isijingi, the pumpkin stew, is included as are some basic geographical facts and a simple map. The writing has good rhythm, and reads aloud well. All in all, this fine counting book is a welcome addition to any collection, and will enrich harvest units.Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York CityCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.