3x4

So exemplary an execution of a simple concept that it can be read multiple ways—as multiplication, counting, sorting—without...

Cartoonist Brunetti (Wordplay) stages another concept-driven comic for early readers. "For your homework, you'll draw 12 things, but in sets," a teacher wearing a plaid shirt and bow-tie instructs. In full-bleed and four-panel spreads using dialogue balloons, Brunetti shows the children's thought processes: "I can't decide... Draw 3 things, 4 times each? Or 4 things, 3 times each?" one boy ponders. A glance at a carton of eggs makes the assignment more clear: "Oh, as long as I have 12! Mom, I'm hungry!" Another student draws a monster with four heads, legs, and tails. Brunetti's India ink and digital art features playful scenes; figures have ball-like heads, blocky torsos, and elongated arms. As the characters work through the multiplication concept on their own terms, readers are sure to arrive at a clearer understanding. Ages 3-6. (Sept.)

K-Gr 2--Annemarie and her classmates, who readers met in Brunetti's Wordplay, are back with a new homework assignment. They need to draw 12 things but in sets. Three sets of four? Four sets of 3? Two sets of 6? It's entirely up to them. The students (and there are, of course, 12 of them) each find an ingenious way to draw 12 of their favorite things as they create art and also begin learning the basics of multiplication. This is a charming beginning reader graphic novel. The art features colorful backgrounds and ethnically diverse characters, rendered with eye-catching crisp lines and basic shapes. The panels alternate between full-page and four-panel pages, chock-full of hidden sets of threes that children will have fun finding, counting, and sorting, all without realizing that they are learning math. The action moves forward smoothly, and the word bubbles are well positioned, with black text and numbers highlighted in color. As with all of the publisher's works, this title ends with tips for reading comics with kids and includes grade suggestions and reading levels. Brunetti's second volume is a lovely graphic story that teaches a simple concept in a most engaging way and will be snapped up by fans and newcomers alike. VERDICT Another winner for beginning readers.--Kelley Gile, Cheshire Public Library, CT