I Know Numbers!

July 24, 2017
This cheerful picture book is less about counting and more about exploring the concept of numbers and the many ways they are used, from telling time to keeping score and creating home addresses so mail gets to the right place. Though numbers themselves don’t really change, some things have since this book was first published in Japan in 1985: “These numbers are used to call someone,” writes Gomi as a woman punches digits on a corded telephone; nearby, an elderly man pushes the number 4 on the front of a TV set to change the channel. But dated technology doesn’t detract from this book’s charm in the slightest: the text, while direct, is infectiously enthusiastic, and Gomi’s characteristically vivid images clearly illustrate just how multifaceted numbers are. Ages 3–5.

August 1, 2017

PreS-K-What is the time? Is your temperature low or high? How much do you weigh? What is your building number? Gomi points out that numbers are everywhere and takes young readers on a counting adventure as he demonstrates the applications of numbers in their daily life. The colorful illustrations call young readers to attention. When the text references numbers, they are shown in context on a clock, on a calendar, on TV channels, on street signs, on phones, on thermometers, and even as page numbers of the book they are reading. The resounding selection of people, objects, and concepts turns a counting book into a delightful cultural experience where cars drive on the left side of the road and a group of boys and girls together do the math on the board. This is not a book to teach children how to count. However, through a series of playful illustrations and different scenarios, kids will enjoy learning about the many common applications of numbers. VERDICT An excellent addition to collections of concept books, suitable for one-on-one and small group sharing.-Taraneh Matloob Haghanikar, University of Northern Iowa, Iowa City

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2018
Originally published in 1985 in Japan, Gomi's latest import is a delightful exploration of the many ways in which "numbers are everywhere!" Written in short, declarative sentences, the text points out that numbers have many uses, from telling time to indicating temperature to identifying prices and so on. Gomi's illustrations balance plenty of white space with colorful, expressive vignettes featuring a variety of children and adults.

(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

November 1, 2017
Originally published in 1985 in Japan, this latest Taro Gomi picture book to be translated into English is a delightful exploration of the many ways numbers appear in daily life: Numbers are everywhere! Written in short, declarative sentences, the text points out that numbers have many uses, ranging from telling time to indicating temperature to identifying prices and calculating measurements of distance and speed to score-keeping in sports. Numbers also provide order and safety, as demonstrated by speed limits, seat assignments, and street addresses. Painted in Gomi's characteristic bold color palette, the illustrations balance plenty of white space with colorful, expressive vignettes featuring a variety of children and adults. These scenes invite viewers to speculate about what's going on (why is a boy frowning as he tries on a size twelve blue shoe?) and extend the math concepts (the illustration that goes with prices are numbers shows a produce stand that smartly mixes prices by both quantity and volume). The last, spare illustration provides a somewhat metafictive wink to picture-book viewers. julie hakim azzam

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)