123 Versus ABC
on Goodreads (643)
What’s inside...
Mike Boldt's bright and playful picture book asks a big question: Which is more important, numbers or letters? Numbers and letters, the colorful characters in this story, compete to be the stars of this book. Their debate escalates when funny animals and props arrive—starting with 1 alligator, 2 bears, and 3 cars. As the competition intensifies, the question remains: Who is this book really about? In the end, the answer is clear. This fresh and funny picture book plays with both numbers and letters in the most imaginative way, delighting readers and leaving them with a memorable, thought-provoking experience.
Discussion points
What do you think would happen if numbers and letters had to work together instead of competing?
Which character did you like the most, a number or a letter, and why?
How do you think the story would change if it was just about numbers or just about letters?
Can you think of a new ending for the story where numbers and letters become friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child if they can predict what might happen in a story about numbers and letters.
Pause during pivotal moments in the story to discuss your child's thoughts and feelings about the characters' actions.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene, focusing on how the numbers and letters interact.
Use the book as an opportunity to explore letters and numbers in everyday life, tying back to the story's theme of competition and cooperation.
Engage in role-play where one of you represents a number and the other a letter, discussing how you can work together to solve a problem.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Collaboration and Teamwork
Explanation: In '123 Versus ABC', numbers and letters learn to work together despite their differences. This is demonstrated through a playful competition that ends with both groups recognizing the importance of each other.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to cooperate with their peers during group activities at school or play, appreciating individual strengths and working towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Understanding of Basic Concepts
Explanation: The book introduces children to fundamental concepts of numbers and letters in a fun and engaging way. By personifying these elements, the story makes learning interactive and memorable.
Real-World Application: This helps children grasp the basics of literacy and numeracy, which are cornerstone skills for their academic development.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The quirky and imaginative interactions between the characters encourage children to think creatively. The unique blend of numbers and letters characters fosters an inventive approach towards learning.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination in problem-solving and storytelling, enhancing their cognitive and creative skills.
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: The narrative shows that despite being fundamentally different, numbers and letters both play crucial roles. This teaches the value of respecting and embracing differences among peers.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital in teaching children to appreciate diversity in school and in their community, promoting inclusivity and respect for others.
Example Lesson: Healthy Competition
Explanation: The friendly competition between the numbers and the letters models how to engage in competitions healthily and constructively, emphasizing fun and learning over winning.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to face real-world competitive situations with a positive mindset, focusing on personal growth and learning rather than merely winning.