Octopuses Have Zero Bones deftly achieves two different goals. Its beautifully illustrated pages both describe our system of numerals and apply them to the universe around us, far and near. The young reader simultaneously acquires a sense of the scale of things and a language to describe it. Kids will be wowed by the pictures and linger over the examples—and maybe even measure a few new items for themselves. This is a multi-dimensional triumph.
— Larry Gonick, Overeducated Cartoonist & Author of Cartoon Guide Series
An instant classic—a fun, fascinating must-read for any child or kid at heart. This book will engage, delight, and enlighten learners of all ages and spark a lifetime of curiosity.
— Lindsay Bierman, Executive Director & CEO, Exploratorium
A great educator who is always thinking about the power of a great question, Dr. Richardson assembles a wide-ranging look at multiple ways to think about the numbers that underly the world around us. Equal parts whimsical and thought-provoking, a must-read for parents of curious kids and future scientists in the making.
— Sam Dean, Founding Executive Director, Scott Family Amazeum
Anne Richardson so wonderfully captures the joy of exploration that is foundational to all scientific discovery. As humanity sets our sights on the Moon, Mars, and beyond, and as we increasingly look to science to help us tackle challenges such as climate change here on Earth, what could be more important than encouraging our kids’ natural curiosity and inspiring the next generation of scientists and confident, creative thinkers.
— Adam Tobin, CEO, Chabot Space & Science Center
Engaging and thoughtfully written, a truly enjoyable journey through numbers for that curious scientist in all of us.
— Lindsay Newman, Structural Engineer, Double-D Engineering
A fascinating romp through tens (hundreds? thousands?) of topics that interest children, accompanied by a solid sense of how numbers relate to each other, to children, and to the world.
— Jen Lumanlan M.S., M.Ed., Founder. Your Parenting Mojo
This delightful book on numerals shows how just the simple act of counting opens up an amazing opportunity for inquiry about the world around us.
— Rob Semper, PhD, Chief Science Officer, Exploratirium
What an exciting and fascinating read! From its creative approach to exploring numbers and measurement to the beautiful artwork, this book inspires an imaginative view of the world around us from the very big to the minute. A real joy to read and learn.
— Ben Kramer, Global Lead of Artist & Label Development, YouTube
I love this book! What a great banquet of numbers and nature, so joyfully illustrated. Times, size scales, numbers of hearts, toes, spots on a ladybug, and so much more… all come to life on pages overflowing with personality. I can imagine a parent and a child reading this again and again, both getting more from it each time. A clever structure introduces the counting numbers from 1 to 10 while also bringing in the powers of ten from 10s to Billions. There is simple information like the number of legs of a water bear and more complex concepts like the PH and decibel scale, all illustrated in such an endearing way that a fact-filled book becomes whimsically engaging.
— Tom Rockwell, Senior Creative Director, Exploratorium
