Numblers

Dazzling colored shapes animate this counting book created by the author of Alphabatics and newcomer Oakes. Numbers one through 10 appear on the left-hand pages in ascending order, first as numerals and then, on the opposite page, as objects composed of altered number forms. For example, three different threes make a frog, four fours become a sailboat, and 10 entire 10s are the various parts of a hot-air balloon. In addition to showing the transformation of number shapes, each word is presented in large letters above the numeral. A helpful guide at the back identifies each object and the number of pieces in its structure. The book succeeds on many levels and may inspire adventurous readers to try a few ``numblers'' of their own. Ages 3-6. (September)