When Sheep Cannot Sleep by Satoshi Kitamura

Reader Response/Classroom Connections: I really enjoyed how this book doesn't outright address numbers and counting, but does so in a round about way. This may be good for younger children who do not yet have the symbolic representation of numbers, or children who may not like math concepts and would otherwise shy away from a counting book. This gives the adult the opportunity to set up counting exercises with the children, without actually having to point out numbers. This order continues, and as each page is examined, there is clearly counting happening, even if it is slightly under the radar.

As wooly encounters a butterfly on the first page, the second page deals with 'two ladybirds'. There are no actual numbers on any of the pages, but instead the illustrator uses pictures to demonstrate one to one correspondence.

If one were to not at first know this is a counting book, it may take a few pages to figure it out. Genre Considerations: This concept book is wonderful in teaching early readers counting skills. The vivid use of illustrations focuses the readers attention to examine each page closely, before jumping to the next page. As the reader flips the pages, it becomes apparent that Wooly is growing sleepy through his expressions. Literary Merit: This book makes great use of illustrations and adventure to excite the reader into taking a closer look. Little does Wooly know, these sights will eventually guide him to a comfortable resting place in which he can relax and kick up his hooves in a restful nights sleep. As Wooly explores his surroundings, he encounters many interesting sights. Wooly decides to go on a little adventure to pass the time. Plot: When Sheep Cannot Sleep is a story of a sheep named Wooly, who finds himself unable to get some shut eye.

When Sheep Cannot Sleep by Satoshi Kitamura