Circles, Stars, and Squares: Looking for Shapes

PreS-Gr 2—Bright and lively spreads introduce children to a variety of shapes: the obvious circles, squares, and rectangles, as well as cylinders, cones, and rings. The typeface is clear, and the photographs are colorful as well as instructive. Three examples are included for most of the shapes; they are totally dissimilar so that readers can get a sense of their many different forms. For example, diamond shapes are shown in a net, a cloth with a diamond-shaped floral pattern, and the glass shapes that make up the Hearst Tower in New York City. A cylinder is matched to building materials, spools of thread, and small pill-size containers holding beads. This simple, straightforward title is perfect for young children who are learning the basics, while the examples could easily lead to discussions about the objects themselves with slightly older readers. A great addition to concept-book collections.—Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City