Goodnight Numbers by Danica McKellar; illustrated by Alicia Padron, 2017
(Ages 2 – 5)
Catchy rhymes and adorable illustrations paired with math concepts makes this book a standout for bedtime. Each two-page spread highlights a number shown numerically and written out as a word along with a short lyrical stanza. “Goodnight, two hands. Goodnight, two feet. Goodnight, two ears, so small and sweet.”
The gentle watercolor and digital illustrations capture a diverse group of children and adults preparing for bedtime. Observant children will notice that there are several examples of the showcased number in each picture. For instance, on the page featuring eight, readers can find eight flowers on the bedspread, eight spots on the dog, eight diamonds on the lampshade, etc.
Understanding that numbers can be communicated different ways is a difficult concept. This book teaches children at an early age that there are many ways to express the same value. Even the end papers show a wonderful representation of numbers ranging from numeric symbols, to words presented in five languages, roman numerals, tallies, cubes, and pictures.
Ten Magic Butterflies by Danica McKellar; illustrated by Jennifer Bricking, 2018
(Ages 3 – 6)
Ten colorful flowers long to fly and their wish comes true one magical night as a fairy transforms them into butterflies. The rhyming text keeps the story moving while also pointing out math concepts of subtraction and regrouping. “3 butterflies flew as 7 flowers looked on. There were still 10 of them – in the sky, on the lawn.”
At sunrise, the butterflies realize they enjoyed flying, but miss being flowers. With a piece of advice, the fairy returns them to their initial form. “Sometimes we wish for different things – to change color or size, or even get wings…But big and tall, or short and small, being ourselves is the best of all!” The moral of appreciating who you are is an extra bonus in this sweet math-themed story. Children will also enjoy how the book hints that the world is an enchanting place and that there is true magic all around us. This point is emphasized by the caterpillar that is seen in the background of every page who spins a cocoon and emerges as a real butterfly at the end.
The flowing text and bright illustrations makes this a good choice for reinforcing math concepts at bedtime or for using as a read aloud at a preschool where a flannel board activity could further reinforce the skills of subtraction and regrouping.
