Ten Green Bottoms: A laugh-out-loud rhyming counting book
#1 of 2 in Ten Bottoms Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Ten Green Bottoms is a vibrant and hilarious counting book by Barry Timms and Mike Byrne that features cheeky animals with green bottoms. Through rhyming text and engaging illustrations, children are led on an adventure to learn counting from one to ten. The story incorporates a twist on the classic nursery rhyme Ten Green Bottles, featuring green-bottomed aliens in a wind-powered rocket causing mischief on Earth. The book contains busy scenes packed with silly humor, perfect for reading aloud and sharing with preschoolers. It also includes a surprise gatefold ending, a number line for counting, and a page dedicated to simple addition, making early math skills enjoyable and interactive.
Discussion points
Why do you think the bottoms are green in the story?
If you could choose a different color, which color would it be and why?
How do the numbers change as we count in the book?
What feelings do you experience when you read this story?
Can you think of other funny items we could count together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive gestures and facial expressions while reading to mimic the silliness in the book, making the story more engaging.
Encourage your child to count along with you, reinforcing their counting skills while adding an interactive element to reading time.
Discuss the illustrations in the book, asking your child what they notice and like about each one to enhance observational skills.
After reading, engage in a playful activity by counting other items around the house in a funny manner to extend the learning experience.
Connect the story's themes to real-life contexts by discussing occasions where counting is necessary and how it can be both useful and fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Counting and Numeracy Skills
Explanation: Through the humorous and engaging rhyming method, 'Ten Green Bottoms' teaches young readers basic counting skills in a fun and memorable way.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these counting skills during playtime, sorting and counting their toys, or even helping out with simple tasks at home like setting the table.
Example Lesson: Color Recognition
Explanation: The colorful illustrations of the book help children to identify and differentiate between various colors.
Real-World Application: This skill can be used in real-world scenarios such as choosing colors in their drawings, or identifying colors of fruits, flowers, and clothing.
Example Lesson: Rhyming and Language Development
Explanation: The consistent use of rhyme throughout the book not only makes the reading experience enjoyable but also enhances phonemic awareness and the ability to predict what rhyming word will come next.
Real-World Application: This nurtures a child’s verbal and communication skills which are essential for daily interactions and academic success.
Example Lesson: Patience and Attention
Explanation: The story’s structure encourages young readers to listen and pay attention to the rhythm and sequence of numbers, fostering patience and concentration.
Real-World Application: Building patience and attention helps children in classroom settings, listening to instructions, and completing tasks effectively.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Cooperation
Explanation: The interactive nature of the book can promote shared reading experiences, teaching children about taking turns and enjoying activities collectively.
Real-World Application: These lessons are essential in a child’s social interactions at school or in playgroups, where cooperation and sharing are valued.