In this lovely picture book, numeracy learning walks hand-in-hand with SEL
messaging about acceptance, diversity, and friendship.

Number 1 is a talented musician, and all the other odd numbers love his music. But
Number 1 realizes something is missing—his tunes need more instruments to really
sing, and none of the other odd numbers play. Despite the very unwelcoming sign
telling him that evens want nothing to do with odds, Number 1 goes hunting for
Number 2, who he’s heard is a wonderful cello player. None of the evens will even
listen to his music, though—as Number 4 explains, evens are just better than odds,
and odds are too … well, odd. Sadly, Number 1 finds a spot to sit and play by himself.
Suddenly, Number 6 joins in—he heard the melody and couldn’t help himself! As
music fills the air, all the numbers realize, “the Even numbers aren’t complete
without the Odds!”

Not just talented, Number 1 is also determined and perseveres even in the face of
hostility and opposition, making him a highly motivational main character. The
bouncy rhyming language adds a natural beat and rhythm to the text, perfectly
complementing the musical theme that runs through the story. The artwork presents
each number in a bright color adorned with human accessories like bows, boots,
hats, and glasses, giving each one a distinctive personality. Little facts about numbers
are scattered throughout the story (“you know you’re odd when you are not a
multiple of two!”), helping readers build numeracy skills as they follow along.

 

Upbeat and cheerful, We're All a Little Odd is perfect for integrating SEL into
mathematics classrooms—or just for fun shared reading!

 

—The Children's Book Review