Review - Classic Munsch 123

Classic Munsch 123 (Classic Munsch Concept Series)
by Robert Munsch
illustrated by Michael Martchenko
Date: 2019
Publisher: Annick Press
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 32
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

Counting with Munsch is as easy as 123! Introducing the first-ever Robert Munsch counting book, beautifully styled in an oversized board book format perfect for gifting. Just as Classic Munsch ABC helps toddlers master the alphabet, Classic Munsch 123 uses favorite characters and illustrations from the wonderful world of Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko to provide a delightful introduction to numeracy. Numbers one through twelve are represented as numerals and are spelled out for early reading recognition. At the end, in one of two brand-new illustrations by Michael Martchenko just for this book, a joyful parade introduces the concept of numbers in sequence while providing an opportunity to repeat and reinforce the early numeracy concepts from previous pages. Like its companion ABC, Classic Munsch 123 is a must-have addition to every child's first library.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

Counting books are a simple concept. It's usually the illustrations that determine how good they are. In this case, though, Classic Munsch 123 also has the advantage of being wonderfully meta.

If you're a fan of Munsch and Martchenko's picture books, you'll probably recognize quite a few of the characters presented on these pages. It looks like the illustrations were lifted straight out of the source material. There's nothing wrong with that, of course, as that's the whole premise of this book. I enjoyed seeing some of my favourite Munsch/Martchenko characters again. There were a few I didn't recognize, though, which makes me want to scour the library for more titles so I can figure out who they all are. Kids who are already familiar with the storybooks will take delight in picking out familiar faces.

A counting book is a counting book, so I don't know if there's anything I can really say about the writing. I was pleased it went up to 12, though, instead of just 10; that allowed for a few more fun illustrations.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend this one, especially to fans of Munsch/Martchenko books. It's got everything an aficionado could want... including a couple of new illustrations as icing on the cake.

Thank you to NetGalley and Annick Press for providing a digital ARC.

Premise: 4/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 3/5

Enjoyment: 5/5

Overall: 4.17 out of 5