Full Count: A Baseball Number Book

Children's Literature - Sharon Salluzzo

Facts and history of the game of baseball are introduced along with the numbers one through ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, fifty, seventy-five, and one hundred. A quatrain strategically placed on the illustration is in a larger typeface than the historical information, explanations and trivia that accompany it on the side. Among the many things readers will learn are: how many players may suit up for a team, what is meant by a "full count" and a "double play." They will read that the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League played from 1943 to 1954. Tee ball players will read about their game, and they will learn about some famous major league players. Some Yogi Berra-isms are included, too. Langton's full-color illustrations and realistic style show the players in interesting poses and various perspectives. It looks like Langton has cleverly incorporated some computer graphics in his paintings to represent the higher numbers. There is a little inconsistency, for some numbers have a single page; some have a double-page spread. Parents can read just the poem to preschoolers and add more information for older children. The picture book format is a good way to begin presenting baseball information to young children. It is a fun way to learn about baseball and to learn numbers. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo