Ruby Dee (1922–2014)

I loved Two Ways to Count to Ten for three reasons. First, the plot is simple yet effective. Essentially, the king of the jungle arranges a competition for all the animals in his kingdom. The plot chronicles each animal's attempt at the challenge. The plot comes together in the end when the "weak" antelope uses his brain to complete the challenge. The straightforward nature of the plot made it enjoyable to read and easy to understand.

Second, the illustrations in this book were fantastic. The illustrator used a combination of water color and colored pencils in this book. In addition, the illustrator used bright, vivacious colors. The illustrations added to the story because they conveyed the lighthearted tone of the text.

Third, this book subtly pushes readers to broaden their perspective. For example, the king says at the end of the book, "Remember, my friends, it is not always the biggest or the strongest, but sometimes the cleverest that wins the prize." As such, the "big picture" of this book is valuing intelligence and creative thinking.… (mehr)