Count!

Fleming's latest title quickly calls young readers to attention. This introduction to the numbers one to 10--plus 20, 30, 40 and 50--also serves as a lively romp through the wild kingdom. Each spread clearly labels a numeral and animal, and depicts the appropriate number of creatures exhibiting characteristic behavior. An exclamatory phrase then helps to identify the animals' activity. For instance, eight vibrant toucans flock toward one pink berry while the text reads ``Share, toucans!'' Two pages sporting the phrase ``Count again!'' and ``Count again, please'' appear near the end of the book and act as rapid reinforcers. The bold, nearly neon illustrations feature Fleming's inventive dyed-pulp painting technique--the result is a collage that crackles with life. The resounding vitality and immediacy of this selection turn a counting lesson into an exhilarating experience. Ages 2-6. (Mar.)