Customer Reviews

55 Friends

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

This delightful, but difficult to find book, is a joy for both readers and listeners. Author/artist Abbie Zabar accomplishes so much, with such subtlety, that everyone will enjoy reading this story again and again.

First, this is a wonderful counting book. It craftily utilizes repetition to help small children remember their early numbers. The objects counted universally appeal to young kids, and the wonderful use of alliteration make the reading poetic and lively.

Second, the creative yet simple illustrations, appeal to all age groups. Children want to count the Silly Salamanders, the Nevermore Dinosaurs, and the Bees Busy Buzzing, again and again. Zabar's use of ink, colored markers and paper collage is fun and entertaining.

Finally, there is a discreet message of tolerance and acceptance at the end. Because after all, not all friends look the same, do they? This is a terrific book for the collection of any child in 2nd grade or younger (second-graders should be able to read this on their own), but it appeals most to pre-schoolers and kindergarteners. I most accurately rate this book at 5.00 out of 5.00 stars, because I don't think it could have been made any better. Highest possible recommendation.