One of a Kind: A Story about Sorting and Classifying

Gr 2-5--This book uses a simple narrative about a pale-skinned boy named Arvo to teach young readers about counting and sorting. Each double-page spread presents a classification analysis related to Arvo and his life. The first page details Arvo's family tree, which can be traced back to his great-great-grandparents. Each part of the family tree is labeled with the family member's connection to Arvo and the percentage of DNA that they share. The next page shows Arvo's cat Malcolm and Malcolm's family tree. Other pages discuss and sort objects such as vehicles, buildings, tools, and cheese. Each classification exercise offers a treasure trove of information. The mixed-media artwork uses cut-out images, conveying an aesthetic that appears both classical and modern. Some of the members of Arvo's extended family are depicted with brown skin. Arvo's story is at the center of all of the classifications, but the classifications are the real highlight. VERDICT Recommended for any library. Readers will understand the basics of genealogy through a straightforward narrative.--Debbie Tanner, S D Spady Montessori Elem., FL