Jump, leap, count sheep! A Canadian wildlife 123

In a companion to Valério's alphabetical Moose, Goose, Animals on the Loose!, the author-illustrator counts to 10 while succinctly introducing Canadian wild animals, including "4 owls staring," "6 seahorses swimming," and "8 lemmings out and about." Valério's geometric collages place the animals against modest backgrounds-semicircular rocks and translucent strips evoke a powerful current for nine salmon leaping upstream. A closing spread elaborates on each animal ("Sockeye salmon are born in freshwater rivers and streams. They swim to the ocean and live in its salty water for up to four years"), though all eyes will be on the boldly colored visual tributes to each animal. Ages 2-5. (Aug.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Canadian animals nearly leap off the pages of this engaging counting book. Each spread features eye-catching cut-paper collages of active creatures in increasing numbers, from "1 Bighorn Sheep jumping" to "10 Ladybugs sleeping." Each entry lists both the number word and numeral; the final spread provides facts about each animal. (c) Copyright 2018. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Although the fauna presented in this simple counting book are not uniquely Canadian, the youngest animal lovers in Canada and beyond will appreciate the opportunity to practice a new skill. An increasing number of collage animals (bighorn sheep, grebes, mantids, owls, snakes, sea horses, plovers, lemmings, salmon, and ladybugs) are the focus of each of 10 double-page spreads. A single action characteristic of each creature is identified. Each page includes both the cardinal number (spelled out) and the numeral. A final glossary spread repeats this information and provides one or two sentences of additional information about each critter pictured. Although Valrio includes several fish, birds, a rodent, a snake, and insects common in Canada, none are exclusive to Canada, so the subtitular declaration that this is a "Canadian Wildlife 123" may limit its perceived relevance to the rest of North America, which would be a shame. The lovely, uncluttered illustrations and unusual selection of creatures featured are what set this counting book apart and make it a worthy import. Each cut-paper critter exemplifies the essential features of that species, while each individual is also distinctly discernible. There is nothing about the clean design that might confuse young children. And one to 10 is just enough for toddlers to count. A gentle charmer ideal for the youngest animal lovers, no matter which side of the border they inhabit. (Picture book. 2-5) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.