Everyone Counts

The double meaning of its title sets the clever tenor of this book's contents, as playful cumulative verse and peppy gouache and pencil illustrations reveal a menagerie of industrious critters transforming an abandoned mall into a zoo. One tiger cub has the initial vision for the project, and two "rough, tough" rhinos arrive in bulldozers to get things rolling--and rudely dismiss a fleet of insects who offer to help: " 'Not a chance, ' said the rhinos./ 'You bugs are too small.'/ 'You're pests. You're annoying./ You don't count at all.' " As other animals arrive in increasingly ascending numbers, they tackle some numerically fitting tasks: six giraffes build six tall towers, and nine moose dig a moat ("nine feet deep, nine feet wide"). And 10 crocodiles construct an elaborate waterslide that the rhinos try to claim--until the insects reappear and cunningly show the bullies just how annoying they can be. The creators of Wild About Books and Wild About You! again demonstrate finely tuned creative teamwork in this nimble tale about cooperation, inclusivity, and the rewards of a job diligently done. Ages 3-7. (Sept.)

PreS-Gr 1--When a group of animals decide to transform an abandoned mall into a beautiful new zoo, they learn the valuable lesson that everyone has something to contribute. The work begins with two burly rhinoceros demolishing the mall; but when a group of eager insects try to join their crew, the cantankerous rhinos call them pests, and tell them they are too small and that they "don't count at all." The construction continues with lemurs, bears, elephants, etc. all building an amazing zoo, which even includes a fantastic water slide. Everything comes to a head when the pugnacious rhinos declare the slide their personal property. The banished bugs from earlier choose this moment to make themselves known and suffice it to say, the rhinos are abashed and soon everyone is having a rollicking good time. Sierra takes on numbers and bullying in a playful manner that is well-suited for young listeners. The rhyming text coupled with detailed illustrations make for a fun storytime read. VERDICT Kids will enjoy poring over the artwork and the charming end pages, which are replete with silly number puns told by the bugs.--Amy Nolan, St. Joseph Public Library, MI