DEEP DEEP SEA

This counting book for infants and toddlers is set in the deep blue sea.

Each double-page spread features an underwater scene with one type of sea creature foregrounded for easy counting. The printed text comprises an Arabic numeral followed by a short descriptive phrase: “1 / ONE BLUE WHALE,” for example. Next, there are two green turtles, three gray dolphins, four yellow sea horses, five red starfish, and finally, 100 brightly colored fish. This is primarily a counting book, but the addition of colors in each identifying phrase will reinforce color knowledge as well as assist little ones in focusing on the sea animals they are supposed to count, preventing confusion with those in the background. The richly textured, vibrant illustrations give the sea a spacious yet comfortable quality, and all the creatures seem pleased to be swimming through its lovely blue waters. Brief and uncluttered, the book is developmentally appropriate for babies and toddlers, who will enjoy exploring it on their own, with an adult, or in a small storytime setting.

When it comes to colors and counting, Preston-Gannon offers a perfect opportunity for little ones to get their feet wet.