Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3    by Bill Martin Jr, Michael Sampson & Lois Ehlert Order:  USA  Can Simon & Schuster, 2004 (2004) Hardcover     Reviewed by Hilary Williamson As the numbers race to climb the apple tree, 'picking apples red and green', the later ones cry 'Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3 ... Will there be a place for me?' They increase by ones up to 20, and then by tens to 90. Number 99 climbs up last, leaving poor 0 behind. But maybe little 0 is the wise one after all - for '0 hides behind the tree' as bumblebees chase the other numbers out, all except for 10. Of course, 0 seizes the moment, and the opportunity, as we hear 'Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3 ... Now I know the place for me!' It's hard to imagine writing a story with numbers as characters, but Martin and Sampson have done an engaging job, ably illustrated by Ehlert's bright, primary pictures of the apple tree and the numbers that fly in and out of it. Use Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3 to engage children in learning their numbers from 0 to 100. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews