Missing Mittens

K-Gr 1-This appealing addition to the series introduces odd and even numbers. When Farmer Bill dresses for outdoor chores on a snowy day, he discovers that he is short one mitten, and "One mitten's not a pair." Proceeding with his work, the farmer soon learns that his cow has the same dilemma. "They looked for her four mittens,/but there were only three." Predictably, the situation escalates. His three chickens have only five, and his two horses have only seven. Finally, Farmer Bill and his animal entourage spot the cause of their problem; it's a mitten-chewing goat. Artfully enhanced by Karas's amusing illustrations, the rhyming text bounces along smoothly. With spectacles perched on the tip of his nose, Farmer Brown wears a comically perplexed look on his face. Colorful borders and warm background colors provide a nice balance to the snowy scenes. Charts help to show the difference between the number of mittens found (odd) and the number needed (even). As in other entries in the series, suggestions for additional activities to extend the math concept are included. This well-executed title works well with or without the math; use it to clarify a concept or read it aloud as an enjoyable winter romp.-Alicia Eames, New York City Public Schools Copyright 2001 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.