  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 08/01/2016 In this follow-up to the evocative ABC Dream (2016), Krans takes on numerals 1 through 20. Each number, rendered alongside corresponding sums of intricately illustrated plants, animals, insects, and other objects, encourages young readers not only to count but to spell. The number 8, for example, doused in soft watercolor, accompanies four large-eared rabbits. Though little ones may initially be confused, adults will make an instant connection between the e in “eight” and the e in “ears.” In a trickier spread, the numbers 12 and 13 seem to share a jumble of spotted toads as well as the pointed thorns of a long-stemmed rose. How can this be? Observant readers will align the red-splashed 13 with nearby red thorns; the opportunity to distinguish t from th sounds is a bonus. Though no doubt challenging, Krans’ signature pen-and-ink drawings, watercolor accents, and enchanting subject matter, from narwhals and fireflies to feathers and toes, are worth poring over. And hearing a youngster attempt to pronounce thistle? That’s just icing on the cake. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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