Xavier Deneux

Small hands can trace shapes of young animals while discovering other tidbits about them. Simple, bright forms on sturdy pages with related words make this an engaging, multisensory experience.  Also in the series, similarly presented and equally appealing, is Homes (opens in a new window).

Raised shapes correspond with die-cuts on sturdy board to present objects and numbers from 1 to 10. Bright colors and broad shapes use limited language to proffer foundational math concepts while providing different ways to perceive them. The same approach is used in Shapes (opens in a new window), another offering in this attractive series.

Feel the raised letters; see where they fit in on the opposing page. Enjoy the bold images as you go through the alphabet accompanied by boldly colored objects that start with each letter. Sophisticated children will be the most receptive and likely to enjoy this thick, sturdy volume.