One is a Drummer: A Book of Numbers

"PreS-Gr. 1. Besides offering a little practice in counting from 1 to 10, this colorful picture book introduces aspects of traditional Chinese culture. Each double-page spread includes a large, horizontal painting illustrating a rhyme such as 'Four are the friends / who play mahjong / Four are the songbirds / that chirp along.' Not all the activities shown are distinctively Asian, and a multicultural crew of children are the participants. The rhymes provide a pleasing framework for the book, and Lin's striking artwork gives it great visual appeal. Bold, black outlines define the forms, while the vibrant colors and decorative patterns bring them to life. On the last page, Thong discusses topics mentioned in the text, such as the Dragon Boat Festival, dim sum, and the Eight Immortals. An appealing counting book, particularly for Chinese American children who want to learn a little about their heritage." -- Booklist