Some books don’t just tell a story—they offer an experience. Counting Creatures is exactly that kind of book. With Julia Donaldson’s elegant rhymes and Sharon King-Chai’s mesmerizing illustrations, it becomes something magical—not just for kids, but for adults too.
It begins with a bat and her single pup. Then with each turn of the page, the number of babies grows: 2 lambs, 3 owlets, 4 fox cubs… up to 10. But it doesn’t stop there. The numbers keep going, introducing a delightful mix of animals—ducklings, mice, hares, spiders—each page doubling as a mini lesson in nature. It’s not just about counting; you also learn the proper names for baby animals, like “leveret” for a baby hare. Even adults might discover something new here.
The lift-the-flap elements aren’t just gimmicks. They’re designed to be part of the story—sometimes they’re leaves, sometimes rocks or tails, sometimes entire environments. Some flaps open upward, others sideways. Every page feels like a surprise waiting to be revealed, almost like a mini paper engineering marvel.
Visually, the book is breathtaking. Rich, vibrant colors and intricate die-cuts turn every page into something frame-worthy. Especially the spider pages—so detailed you’ll be tempted to go back and count every last one (and yes, even though the cover says 30, you might find 32).
The language flows beautifully. The rhymes are rhythmic, memorable, and fun, making it easy for young readers to pick up on patterns and repeat them aloud. The repetition turns reading into an almost musical experience—one that kids will want to revisit again and again.
There’s even a surprise at the end—a search-and-find puzzle that invites readers to flip back through the book and look more closely. It adds an extra layer of fun and engagement, making it more than just a one-time read.
One small caveat: some of the flaps and pages are delicate. They might not hold up well in busy library settings. But for home reading, especially as a shared experience between child and adult? Absolutely worth it.
Counting Creatures transforms counting into a journey—through animals, habitats, language, and wonder. It’s educational for kids and inspiring for grown-ups. The kind of book that belongs not on a shelf, but right out on the coffee table.
And here’s a tip: don’t miss the wonderful conversations this book can spark with your child. A book like this is a perfect beginning.
