♦ A math concept book that encourages creative thinking and celebrates all answers, as none are wrong! A lengthy introduction of five and a half spreads introduces readers to the kind of mathematical thinking Danielson is encouraging. The first spread matches the final ones and presents four shapes, asking readers: “Which one doesn’t belong? Why?” The next spreads explain how every answer is correct—one needs only to support it. Is it the triangle among the quadrilaterals? The one shape that is an outline instead of a solid color? Nine spreads then follow that each present kids with four new shapes and the same questions, bold colors attracting and holding interest as kids pore over the similarities and differences. The author’s note emphasizes that “All properties count here; all ideas matter….You’re thinking in a mathy way when you notice sameness and difference for one property at a time.” And refreshingly, Danielson doesn’t care about technical language—observations trump terms, so don’t worry about describing them as “smooshed…dented…or colored in”; just describe them. This is one shape book that will both challenge readers’ thinking and encourage them to think outside the box.
—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review
