One, Two, One Pair!

Just when it seems that there could not possibly be a new interpretation of the photo concept book, veteran McMillan ( Counting Wildflowers ; Mary Had a Little Lamb ) offers a winner. Preparations for an ice-skating outing are the focus of this involving book, which explores ``the basic math concept of number sets.'' ``One,'' ``Two,'' ``A Pair!'' are presented whimsically in vivid, colorful photographs, through a cheery succession of spreads that show, for example, one left hand, one right hand, then--on the facing page--a pair of hands washing. Eager page-turners will see bright red socks, yellow mittens, white ice skates with blue laces and more. The final pages contain a surprise: the engaging child model is actually two--a pair of twins who enjoy matching cups of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream. Like their snack, this book is satisfying and delicious. Ages 3-6. (Feb.)