About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking 'why' about the most basic things we take for granted, like the shapes of numbers or where our counting system comes from. It is a perfect choice for a curious child who enjoys fables or has expressed interest in math, history, or how different cultures contribute to the world's knowledge. This story transforms a dry history lesson into a vibrant, magical journey. The book follows nine animals traveling to the Indian raja's birthday party, each carrying a gift that represents a numeral. Through their adventure, children see how the symbols for 1 through 9 evolved from ancient Brahmi and Gwalior scripts into the digits we use today. It also introduces the vital concept of zero as the 'nothing' that makes 'everything' possible. Beyond the math, it is a gentle story of teamwork and the pride of contributing something unique to a community celebration.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and safe. It deals with concepts of value and worthiness in a metaphorical way. There are no depictions of violence or trauma. The resolution is intellectually satisfying and emotionally warm.
