NUMBERS EVERYWHERE

In an elegant and original expression of a well-worn topic, renowned architectural photographer Kaufman scours the natural and man-made landscapes for accidental representations of numbers.

A grain silo, a striking red plow, a mailbox, leaves, flowers, shadows, ice, wood, architectural details, even drains and cracks in the pavement; all are surprising and evocative photographic representations of the numerals 0-9, simple mathematical symbols and a few simple equations. No subject is too humble for Kaufman’s practiced lens. Recalling the I Spy photo books, this book encourages children to be observant and to look for numbers and mathematical symbols in the most unlikely places. In his introduction, Kaufman suggests children begin their “own hunt[s] for ‘accidental’ numbers and capture them with [their] own device[s].” The book assumes a close interaction with adults who can confirm children’s guesses at which number is depicted—a few would be tricky without help, but therein lies the fun.

Unsullied by text, this purely photographic numbers book with its attractive die-cut cover is a visual feast and will be treasured by kids with an eye for detail