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Zero
Zero is a big round number. When she looks at herself, she just sees a hole right in her center. Every day she watches the other numbers line up to count: "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 . . . !" "Those numbers have value. That's why they count," she thinks. But how could a number worth nothing become something? Zero feels empty inside. She watches One having fun with the other numbers. One has bold strokes and squared corners. Zero is big and round with no corners at all. "If I were like One, then I can count too," she thinks. So she pushes and pulls, stretches and straightens, forces and flattens herself, but in the end she realizes that she can only be Zero. As budding young readers learn about numbers and counting, they are also introduced to accepting different body types, developing social skills and character, and learning what it means to find value in yourself and in others.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 15, 2010
8 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Otoshi
18 books84 followersKathryn Otoshi is an acclaimed author, illustrator and speaker best known for her character-building books, Zero, One, and Two. She travels across the country inspiring students through reading, art and the power of literature. Her books, Beautiful Hands and Draw the Line, make important statements about connecting and building community.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
December 29, 2019
Kathryn Otoshi has done it again!!
Zero
delivers a powerful message in such simplistic and easy to follow language. She challenges us to know and recognize our value. It is a message that young and old alike can appreciate and should be reminded of regularly.
This is a book that I think we can all embrace. 🤗
This is a book that I think we can all embrace. 🤗
April 27, 2021
Delightful book addressing both counting and self-esteem for young primary readers.
Truly wonderful story that is fun to read aloud.
Truly wonderful story that is fun to read aloud.
May 20, 2017
Lovely!
Read and listen here: https://youtu.be/ZG4ZsYC1AVs
Read and listen here: https://youtu.be/ZG4ZsYC1AVs
January 10, 2011
I loved the premise and liked the execution well enough. The story and illustrations are enjoyable and educational and a bit philosophical. I was sufficiently impressed that I just reserved One at the library, another earlier book by this author that seems to be a companion book to this one.
The counting starts from 1 to 7 then 1-9, then 10, 20, etc. all the way to 1,000,000.
Zero is a character with a personality in this book. My favorite line is “Zero felt empty inside.”
Zero is gray, as is one, which is a slightly different shade of gray. Two through nine stay in the same bright colors on every page. The book is colorful and the pages are appealing to view.
There is a story, and for some kids it will serve as a springboard to practicing counting, and some will appreciate the story on its own. I could see discussions starting about numbers & counting, working collaboratively, connections between those with differences, and on and on. It is a good read aloud book with a lot of opportunity to use voice inflection and acting as the reader reads. I can see some adults being irritated by this book and some kids not being incredibly enthusiastic, but it worked for me.
Note to self: 01/10/11, Goodreads member since 05/07: This is my Goodreads review #1499 and my 2,998th rated book. So, with the review written for this book, now exactly 50% of my rated books are reviewed. (Kudos to Goodreads friends and general members who have reviewed 100% or closer to 100% of their rated books.!) I was hoping my 50% reviewed would happen with a memorable, full length book, but at least it’s a book about numbers. ;-)
The counting starts from 1 to 7 then 1-9, then 10, 20, etc. all the way to 1,000,000.
Zero is a character with a personality in this book. My favorite line is “Zero felt empty inside.”
Zero is gray, as is one, which is a slightly different shade of gray. Two through nine stay in the same bright colors on every page. The book is colorful and the pages are appealing to view.
There is a story, and for some kids it will serve as a springboard to practicing counting, and some will appreciate the story on its own. I could see discussions starting about numbers & counting, working collaboratively, connections between those with differences, and on and on. It is a good read aloud book with a lot of opportunity to use voice inflection and acting as the reader reads. I can see some adults being irritated by this book and some kids not being incredibly enthusiastic, but it worked for me.
Note to self: 01/10/11, Goodreads member since 05/07: This is my Goodreads review #1499 and my 2,998th rated book. So, with the review written for this book, now exactly 50% of my rated books are reviewed. (Kudos to Goodreads friends and general members who have reviewed 100% or closer to 100% of their rated books.!) I was hoping my 50% reviewed would happen with a memorable, full length book, but at least it’s a book about numbers. ;-)
June 24, 2012
Theme: Everyone has worth and value
Another outstanding book by Kathryn Otoshi; loved the simple illustrations and the simple yet complexity of the meaning of the text (leads to great class discussion during and at the end of the book).
Golden nuggets: don’t try to be someone that you are not, everyone has value (everyone counts), believing in yourself and who you are.
Love the quote: "Be open. You'll find a way."
Classroom use: This would be a great book to use at the beginning of the year when we can talk about each one of us has a role in the classroom and each one, "counts." It would also be great for devotions to talk about how God created each of us unique (parts of the body), we all are not a “9” or a “1”; we are all just as God created us to be with gifts and talents that we can use to serve him.
Technology connections: Using Tagxedo and the zero shape have the kids come up with words or phrases that we can use to encourage one another in the classroom (so that we can “help each other soar, we can count even more!”)
Another outstanding book by Kathryn Otoshi; loved the simple illustrations and the simple yet complexity of the meaning of the text (leads to great class discussion during and at the end of the book).
Golden nuggets: don’t try to be someone that you are not, everyone has value (everyone counts), believing in yourself and who you are.
Love the quote: "Be open. You'll find a way."
Classroom use: This would be a great book to use at the beginning of the year when we can talk about each one of us has a role in the classroom and each one, "counts." It would also be great for devotions to talk about how God created each of us unique (parts of the body), we all are not a “9” or a “1”; we are all just as God created us to be with gifts and talents that we can use to serve him.
Technology connections: Using Tagxedo and the zero shape have the kids come up with words or phrases that we can use to encourage one another in the classroom (so that we can “help each other soar, we can count even more!”)
June 29, 2012
Even though it's numerically out of order, it helps a little to read One before this rather than after, as I did. However, this is a brilliant stand-alone book as well on the real necessity of self value. The art is lovely, which is a true compliment when coming from a traditionalist like me who doesn't really appreciate modern art. Somehow, the sparseness really works for this book, and the sparing use of iridescence is fantastic.
It's curious that Zero is a female, as the woman who loaned me this pointed out. Honestly, I didn't notice until she said something about it, but there are all sorts of feminine assumptions that could go along with that. I, however, don't care so much about that as I do that this is a great story that encourages kids (and adults!) to recognize that they are intrinsically valuable, even when it doesn't seem so.
It's curious that Zero is a female, as the woman who loaned me this pointed out. Honestly, I didn't notice until she said something about it, but there are all sorts of feminine assumptions that could go along with that. I, however, don't care so much about that as I do that this is a great story that encourages kids (and adults!) to recognize that they are intrinsically valuable, even when it doesn't seem so.
January 3, 2020
Picture book that incorporates both counting and some advice on self-image. Zero feels like, well, a zero. After all, she's empty inside. Until she learns to see herself differently. I love the juxtaposition of identity and emotional health onto a simple counting book. But I would have liked the book even better if Zero had come to her own conclusion about her self-worth rather than relying on Seven to explain it to her. I also suspect that Zero could have become an Eight if she had not given up so easily, but then I guess it would be a book about perseverance instead of self-esteem. The art is very simple but effective. Note the page where Seven leans into Zero, creating a greater than sign.
February 12, 2014
Zero
by Kathryn Otoshi
This book is titled “Zero.” Where have you seen this number/letter before? Make a prediction as to what you think this book is about based upon the cover and share with a partner. Do you think this will be about numbers or letters? Lets take a look at some of the pictures. Now that we have seen it is about numbers based upon the pictures, what do you think this book is about? Did your predictions change or stay the same? I will tell you that this book is about more than numbers. It is also about courage, values, and social skills, and most important acceptance. What do you define these terms as? Can you think of a time you wanted to be accepted so bad that you would have done anything? How did you feel? What did you do? Shared with a friend and then we will share some stories if you would like to with the class.
Opening Moves
-Prompt predictions based on the title
-Invite personal connections
Rationale: I choose this book because not only does it provide a nice and quick review of numbers, but it also touches on acceptance, social skills, and differences very nicely and in a developmentally appropriate way for primary students. We learn in this book that it is not what is on the outside of a person that counts, but it’s what is on the inside that counts the most and feeling whole versus empty. This is a good reminder for students and adults working with children who have special needs. We all need to feel whole on the inside and be accepted for who we are and understand that our differences make us all unique and extraordinary.
(2010, November 10). School Library Journal. http://www.booksinprint2.com.leo.lib....#
by Kathryn Otoshi
This book is titled “Zero.” Where have you seen this number/letter before? Make a prediction as to what you think this book is about based upon the cover and share with a partner. Do you think this will be about numbers or letters? Lets take a look at some of the pictures. Now that we have seen it is about numbers based upon the pictures, what do you think this book is about? Did your predictions change or stay the same? I will tell you that this book is about more than numbers. It is also about courage, values, and social skills, and most important acceptance. What do you define these terms as? Can you think of a time you wanted to be accepted so bad that you would have done anything? How did you feel? What did you do? Shared with a friend and then we will share some stories if you would like to with the class.
Opening Moves
-Prompt predictions based on the title
-Invite personal connections
Rationale: I choose this book because not only does it provide a nice and quick review of numbers, but it also touches on acceptance, social skills, and differences very nicely and in a developmentally appropriate way for primary students. We learn in this book that it is not what is on the outside of a person that counts, but it’s what is on the inside that counts the most and feeling whole versus empty. This is a good reminder for students and adults working with children who have special needs. We all need to feel whole on the inside and be accepted for who we are and understand that our differences make us all unique and extraordinary.
(2010, November 10). School Library Journal. http://www.booksinprint2.com.leo.lib....#
May 29, 2012
Zero, by Kathryn Otoshi, is the follow up to One. The moral of this story is peer perception and self-value as the number zero has to find where it fits in with the other numbers. Zero feels empty inside, but discovers that by being open, it can facilitate creating bigger and greater value(s). I like both of these books for incorporating deeper meanings into lessons on counting through bold splotches of colorful illustrations. Between them, I do prefer One for its simple, powerful message on anti-bullying, and its vibrant cover art.
June 20, 2011
This gorgeously illustrated book is all about the number zero. The book is narrated from zero's perspective. It is designed to help children develop an understanding of what zero means and how it relates to other numbers. The story is very touching, and the beautiful watercolor illustrations keep the reader engaged. The story starts by explaining what zero is, then goes on to discuss zero's relationship to other numbers, getting up to four digit numbers. It talks about how "zero brings value to everything." I am going to get this book for my classroom!
April 27, 2011
It's a nice book.
October 10, 2019
All the other numbers can do amazing things and zero feels sad and useless...but then Zero discovers that if she joins with other numbers they can all soar and do more.
May 27, 2017
Zero is feeling very unimportant as he sees the whole in his middle and doesn't think he's worth anything. He compares himself to all the other numerals and still thinks he's valueless. It's only when the other numerals show him his place after them and how he can be in many places from 10 to 1,000,000,000 that he realizes he is special after all.
My almost 5 year old grandson is number crazy right now and really enjoyed this book. It was also a great way to talk about how everything has something special about it.
My almost 5 year old grandson is number crazy right now and really enjoyed this book. It was also a great way to talk about how everything has something special about it.
April 29, 2019
Another fabulous work by author/artist Kathryn Otoshi! I am so glad that she was at this year’s library conference or I might not have discovered her books. The message in “Zero” is that all have worth and to be open to all the possibilities. The art is animated and enriches the message of the text perfectly. Like her other books, the target age group is likely 3-6 year olds, but caregivers of that age group need to heed the clear encouragement that everyone is valuable, and budding artists should find inspiration in how much movement can be produced with simple swoops and swirls of paint!
October 10, 2015
It's easy to feel as if you don't matter - as if you don't count at all. Zero is having a bit of an identity crisis and struggles to find her place in the world. I'm starting to think this books are written more for adults than for children (even with all the lovely math skills so cunningly slipped into the story - very tongue in cheek more often than not.). These are picture books, complex enough to make anyone really think.
May 15, 2017
Much too didactic about self-esteem. Lame illustrations, pretty much (though sometimes when Zero was trying to be like someone else it was cute). However, I do like the vocabulary lesson about the meanings of Count and Value. This could be used in math class by teachers who are into cross-curricular programs.
October 29, 2010
A counting book with a twist. Zero is having a bit of a life crisis. The other numbers seem to have substance but zero has a big whole in the middle. Until one day, zero learns how important he can be. Just a fun book that can be used in a variety of ways with kids of all ages.
April 24, 2011
Another winner from the author of our favourite book One this time focusing on accepting who you are and appreciating the value of everyone.
January 31, 2011
Zero wanted to have a value, he found it looking at his ownself(:
August 28, 2011
I love books that help kids see that they should be proud of who they are.
June 24, 2014
Not quite as outstanding as One, but good message and high quality for a children's book
December 22, 2015
Zero's story is even more touching than 1's. Love this one, even if I did just draft notes for a "Zero" picture book only to find this book already exists!
December 28, 2016
Brilliant message, beautifully done.
January 31, 2022
A very creative book. I had never intentionally read a postmodern picture book before, and this one was a great start. The story of zero and how she is never counted when we start at "1... 2.... 3..." Zero settles herself and realizes she can only be herself and there is nothing she can do. This was a cute tale of finding ones worth and being content in the situation that they are given because we are all special in our own way. A very non linear plot, and dazzling use of illustrations, it was a great start into the journey of postmodernism.
December 30, 2019
Beautiful book! Words every kid needs to hear regularly! This will be a regular read to my kids. My daughter loved it so much, she asked for me to read it to her class.
September 7, 2020
Zero by: Kathryn Otoshi
This fiction children's book takes readers on Zero's journey of finding value in being who she is. From feeling empty and trying to change to realizing who she truly is.
"Every plot must have a conflict, and how that conflict is resolved carries the book to its conclusion." (Young T, Bryan G, Jacobs J, Tunnell M, (2020). Children's Literature, Briefly). This book did exactly that as it gave you Zero's conflict with herself and took you through her resolution process.
The content in this book could be a good book to read in regards to teaching acceptance, value, and even number skills all at the same time!
If you enjoyed this book I recommend Spoon by: Amy Rosenthal
Grade Level: Kinder - 1st grade
This fiction children's book takes readers on Zero's journey of finding value in being who she is. From feeling empty and trying to change to realizing who she truly is.
"Every plot must have a conflict, and how that conflict is resolved carries the book to its conclusion." (Young T, Bryan G, Jacobs J, Tunnell M, (2020). Children's Literature, Briefly). This book did exactly that as it gave you Zero's conflict with herself and took you through her resolution process.
The content in this book could be a good book to read in regards to teaching acceptance, value, and even number skills all at the same time!
If you enjoyed this book I recommend Spoon by: Amy Rosenthal
Grade Level: Kinder - 1st grade
March 11, 2019
This is the perfect accompaniment to Otoshi's release of One. Zero centers on the number zero felling empty and without value. She tries to become like other numbers without success. Basically, she's trying too hard to be something that she isn't. When she meets the other numbers, they seem to have a lot of fun. "7" sets her straight when it says, "It's what's inside that counts most." Seven assures her that everyone has value. After thinking about it, she decided that can add value to all of the numbers by making them even greater! She helps them become numbers in greater value by adding herself (10, 20, 30, etc.), and encouraging the other numbers (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9) to add value to one another by combining. Lots of room for teacher-led discussions after the read. The artwork won't blow you away, but Otoshi does it justice. The students will like all of crazy configurations of zero and the colors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2013
We've already read the book One by Kathryn Otoshi, but I didn't know that this book existed until I read about it here on Goodreads.
This story is an interesting tale about the importance of the number one. I like that it is a simple tale, but shows the significance of the number. And I love that it shows that everyone makes a contribution.
I would've liked to see more mathematical details, but for younger children, this is enough. The illustrations are rather basic, but overall the story is entertaining. We enjoyed reading this book together.
This story is an interesting tale about the importance of the number one. I like that it is a simple tale, but shows the significance of the number. And I love that it shows that everyone makes a contribution.
I would've liked to see more mathematical details, but for younger children, this is enough. The illustrations are rather basic, but overall the story is entertaining. We enjoyed reading this book together.
July 19, 2010
Another great upcoming picture book from Kathryn Otoshi. In this "sequel" to her book "One," Otoshi tackles the issue of finding value in yourself. In the basic story, the number zero feel "empty inside" and wishes he could be like the other numbers and "count." He tries to twist and turn and shape himself into likenesses of the other numbers, but it never works out. And then one day, he looks at himself in a different light, seeing that he's not empty inside, but rather "open" inside and full of potential for counting...
Otoshi really has a Knack for using simple illustrations to help serious issues resonate.
Otoshi really has a Knack for using simple illustrations to help serious issues resonate.
March 2, 2011
This is a great book! The tension mounts as the reader ponders with Zero, how will that number make itself count? The minimalist illustrations (numbers in different colors) are still very expressive. I think the most brilliant thing about this book is that it makes the reader try to solve the dilemma that Zero faces and really brings home just how valuable a digit zero is. The side lessons of how to be supportive to a suffering number were great, too. Seven is a good little number. 8 and 9 try to problem solve, too. This is a very clever, sweet book that makes numbers personal and interesting. Excellent for teaching a math concept to a non-math oriented brain. Hooray!
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