Review - We Are One

We Are One
by Susan Hood
illustrated by Linda Yan
Date: 2021
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book non-fiction
Pages: 32
Format: e-book
Source: library

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts--and unity and connection are most important of all--in a beautifully illustrated counting book with a timely message.

One can be one thing all on its own--one star, one stream, one stick, one stone. But those on their toes, those using their smarts, know one can be more than the sum of its parts.

Consider the two slices of bread that make up one sandwich, or the three lines of poetry that form one haiku, or even the ten years that form one decade. From one to ten, from sandwiches to centuries, every part is necessary to the whole. In this fascinating concept book, a simple rhyming narration aimed at younger children is complemented by informational panels about subjects like the four compass points, the five acts in Shakespeare, the seven colors of a rainbow, or the nine innings in baseball. Award-winning author Susan Hood and debut children's book illustrator Linda Yan offer a mind-expanding look at early math concepts such as part/whole relationships, fractions, and addition--while underlying themes of cooperation, peace, and kindness make this beautiful volume one to be enjoyed by anyone at any age.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

This is an interesting picture book. You can read it with just the rhyming text, or you can stop and peruse the informative footers on each page that go into a little more depth about each concept. The numbers 1 through 10 are related to different things (such as poetry, sandwiches, or baseball). Cute illustrations accompany each concept.

There are lots of resources at the end for kids who want to learn more, along with lists of things that come in twos or fives or nines (and so on). Some of the language in the footer text seems a little advanced, but at least it isn't talking down to kids.

Overall, this is a strong little picture book. It reminds me a bit of titles like Elin Kelsey's You Are Stardust or Jason Gruhl's Everything Is Connected, but with the added bonus of the numbers.

Premise: 4/5
Meter: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 4/5

Enjoyment: 4/5

Overall: 4 out of 5