Zero Is the Leaves on the Tree

by Betsy Franco and Shino Arihara

Betsy Franco offers poetic contemplation of the number zero and the idea it represents.... read more

Betsy Franco offers poetic contemplation of the number zero and the idea it represents. “Zero is… the leaves on the bare, brown arms of the oak tree… the kites in the sky once the wind has stopped blowing… the sound of stars filling the night.” Franco’s text, supported by Shino Arihara’s lovely illustrations, offers both concrete and abstract examples. It naturally lends itself to classroom activities, whether coming up with other ways to think about zero, exploring other numbers in the same way, or talking about the role and function of zero in mathematical terms. Who knew “nothing” could be so inspiring? (Ages 4–7)

© Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2010

show less

5 Total Resources 1 Awards View Text Complexity Submit Text Complexity