Shape by Shape

MacDonald (Alphabet Animals ) uses die-cut pages to demonstrate how geometric shapes can build larger, recognizable forms. Against a bright yellow backdrop, two black circles peer back as the text reads, “Do you know what I am? I lived a long, long time ago.” Little by little, the creature is given shape: “I had round eyes” (when the page is turned and circles added, the black pupils of the creature get yellow irises. Next up: “Lots of sharp teeth” (nine white triangles), “a fierce glance” (a wide crescent) and “many, many scales” (lime green diamonds), bring the animal to life. The final fold-out spread reveals the prehistoric creature in full. Younger readers might not fully grasp the concept, but the nifty design produces a satisfying effect. Ages 3–7. (June)