STEFFORA, Tracey . Comparing with Cats . ISBN 978-1-4329-7559-3 ; ISBN 978-1-4329-7566-1 . LC 2012049398. STEFFORA, Tracey . Measuring with Monkeys . ISBN 978-1-4329-7560-9 ; ISBN 978-1-4329-7567-8 . LC 2012049378. STEFFORA, Tracey . Skip Counting with Meerkats . ISBN 978-1-4329-7561-6 ; ISBN 978-1-4329-7568-5 . LC 2012049379. STEFFORA, Tracey . Taking Away with Tigers . ISBN 978-1-4329-7563-0 ; ISBN 978-1-4329-7570-8 . LC 2012049449. ea vol: 24p. (Animal Math Series). chart. diag. glossary. photos. Heinemann . 2013. lib. ed. $21.99; pap. $5.99. PreS-Gr 1 This series aims to use "cute or high-interest animals" to teach adding, measuring, take away, comparing, and skip counting. There's nothing exciting here but the texts do explain the concepts well. For example, Skip Counting starts with adding twos: 2+2=4; two more are added through basic addition: 2+2+2=6. At six, a number line is introduced, along with circling groups of two. The photos are clear and bright but repetitive. Teaching notes provide additional classroom activities. Questions that are asked are answered in the back. This set specifically targets the Common Core standards, going so far as to list the standards being addressed-a very useful addition for teachers.

These animal-themed volumes introduce early math concepts. Colorful spreads with numerous photos will capture children's interest, though some visuals could be clearer. Questions, examples, and graphic tools (number lines, simple graphs) will get kids thinking and engaged. Monkeys and Cats provide more animal information and photo variety than Ants. Animal facts and Common Core teaching notes are appended. Glos.