Title: Counting Crows
Author: Kathi Appelt
Illustrator: Rob Dunlavey
Age Group: 2-5
Synopsis: Follow these silly crows through a number adventure.
The Lowdown:
There’s something so striking about a limited color palette and books that utilize it well always seem to jump off the shelf and into my bag. Applet cleverly pairs this palette with some very quirky crows, that are downright silly in their antics. It makes for an interesting read, something counting books can greatly lack. Another thing I enjoyed was that the book didn’t stop at ten. I haven’t met many kids that have an issue counting to ten. It’s when they get past that dreaded threshold that troubles begin. For Bug, this has proven difficult, especially when he reaches 13. Interestingly enough he can count to twenty and beyond with no problem in German. I’m sure there’s been some sort of research into this but if there has been I’m not aware of it. If anyone knows about it then let me know.
The first crows introduced to us are slightly different in that their clothing differs from the rest to come. Most striking is the red scarf. Through lightly rhyming lines, the remaining crows, one through twelve are introduced in groups of three initially and then thinned out to one by one. These mischievous fellows seem to constantly be on the look out for something to eat, gobbling up bugs, mangos, peanuts, peppers, crackers, and much more. However, there’s another character that is equally as hungry. Making an appearance towards the last pages an overly friendly feline frightens this jolly group which takes flight so quickly that the red scarf is lost in the process. The final page shows the cat wearing the trophy as a conciliatory prize for missing out on the blackbird pie.
Dunlavey does a fantastic job delivering on these illustrations. As I mentioned before the limited color palette is truly striking. The red very easily draws the eye from the grey, black, and white that are used on each page and make it easy for the youngest of children to follow the story. Additionally the crows each have such huge eyes and expressive faces that their expressions can be identified by small readers. I have admit that I’m also a huge fan of the Where’s Waldo? like shirts that each crow is attired in.
Whether you want to work on counting or just have fun with a story Appelt and Dunlavey have provided the perfect opportunity for both. Through a repetitive and fun text the crows come to life in a new sort of way (by threes vs one at a time). Additionally they’re given a fabulous vitality through the amazing illustrations that seem to pop off the page, making these characters a bit larger than life.
Story Tips:
- Practice counting to twelve with little ones while reading. For children who have already mastered this skill, you can introduce the concept of counting by threes.
I need more!
Kathi Appelt has an impressive number of books that she’s authored but I haven’t actually read any of her other works before. So if you’re looking for more info check out her website at: http://www.kathiappelt.com/books/
Rob Dunlavey has illustrated four books, according to his website, but I’d say my favorite is Counting Crows by far. His other work is less quirky but no less beautiful. To see for yourself, see his website at: http://www.robd.com/
