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Kathryn Otoshi
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Zero Hardcover – September 15, 2010

by Kathryn Otoshi (Author)
4.9 4.9 out of 5 stars 440 ratings
See all formats and editions
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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.
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  1. Reading age
    3 - 7 years, from customers
  2. Print length
    32 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Lexile measure
    510L
  5. Dimensions
    10.25 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches
  6. Publisher
    KO Kids Books
  7. Publication date
    September 15, 2010
  8. ISBN-10
    097239463X
  9. ISBN-13
    978-0972394635
  10. See all details
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Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

K-Gr 2–Zero has a complex–she finds herself unglamorous. Furthermore, with a hole in her center, she feels she doesn't count as much as her fellow numbers do. Twisting herself into the shape of 8 or 9 doesn't work; her attempt only leaves an empty feeling inside. Then one day, Zero discovers that by joining together with another number, 1, for example, she can become 10, or 100, or 1000, increasing her value. Soon, the others do the same–2 joins 3, 111 joins 5, and 4 and 8 join 2 –escalating their worth and pleasure as well. At last, Zero feels whole, “right in her center.” Otoshi's story plays out against either stark white or dense black pages where Zero is strikingly depicted in broad silver brush strokes. In contrast, the others numbers cartwheel across the pages in bright splashy colors. Readers swept into the arresting artwork will soon be captivated by the importance of numbers. However, the underlying mission of the book–to elevate children's self-worth–will take an intuitive parent or teacher to weave the two concepts together.–Barbara Elleman, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst, MAα(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

From Booklist

*Starred Review* Zero sees herself as a big round number with emptiness inside. The other, more colorful numbers have fun, and they count. After trying to stretch and pinch herself into another shape (1, 8, or 9) and making a bombastic grand entrance that sends the other numbers tumbling, Zero is ready to listen to some wise words: “‘Every number has value,’ said Seven. ‘Be open. You’ll find a way.’” Inspired, Zero shows the numbers how to “count even more.” With her help, 1 becomes 10, 2 becomes 20, and so on. Zero realizes her value and feels whole. Whether seen as an introduction to zero or to self-esteem, this picture book delivers on many levels. The simple story and colorful, minimalist art will intrigue children, even those too young to understand every bit of wordplay and wisdom in the text, while older kids will find food for thought. On the dramatic, black book jacket, the raised letters of the title include Zer in shining silver, and O in a silver that shines and also shimmers with subtle, shifting colors. Every aspect of the book’s illustration and design seems carefully thought out, beautifully executed, and pleasing. An impressive sequel to One (2008). Preschool-Grade 3. --Carolyn Phelan

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ KO Kids Books; 8/24/10 edition (September 15, 2010)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 32 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 097239463X
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0972394635
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 3 - 7 years, from customers
  • Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ 510L
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.03 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.25 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.9 4.9 out of 5 stars 440 ratings

About the author

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Kathryn Otoshi

Kathryn Otoshi

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Kathryn Otoshi is a multi-award winning author/illustrator and national/international speaker best known for her character-building book series, “Zero”, “One”, and “Two”. She goes to schools across the country to encourage kids to develop strong character assets, and helps teachers find customized, creative methods to engage and connect with their students through art, reading and the power of literature. Her latest book, “Beautiful Hands”, co-authored with Bret Baumgarten, is a call-to-action book reminding kids to use their hands to do something positive and inspirational for each other and our communities. Her upcoming book, “Draw the Line”, about boundaries and conflict-resolution, will be coming out in 2017.

Customer reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
440 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book's message wonderful and inspiring. They describe the story as touching and moving. The writing is creative and unique, with simple language that young children can understand. Readers appreciate the beautiful illustrations and colors. The book introduces zero and gives it meaning, making it a great way to introduce counting and numeracy concepts. It is considered a must-have book that is multipurpose and has developing characters that numbers enthusiasts love.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more
MessageStory tellingCreativityVisual styleZoologyBook contentCharacter development
69 customers mention "Message"69 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's message. It introduces concepts of self-esteem and friendship, in a simple way that both kids and adults can follow. They find it fun to read together and mention that their kids love the numbers and colors.

"...The story and illustrations are simple enough that little kids follow it, relate to it and actually enjoy it...." Read more

"Amazing book about numbers and being true to yourself!" Read more

"...She felt empty inside. Zero is a wonderful number book that looks at not only the concept of counting, it tackles the social issue of self..." Read more

"...start at 1, its great to start at zero and work with zero, helps a lot for your children when they are looking at negative numbers and the number..." Read more

16 customers mention "Story telling"16 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the story's storytelling. They find it touching, inspiring, and creative in covering socio-emotional topics that are ageless and relevant. The book uses counting and Japanese elements to enhance the storytelling.

"Fantastic book. Such a simple story. And so illustrative! My now 3 year old absolutely loves it. He is a big fan of the first book "One"...." Read more

"This story book is great! My nieces loves this book...." Read more

"...As an adult, I found the story quite moving...." Read more

"...This book has counting, story telling, teamwork, and nifty Japanese paintbrush art all wrapped into one...." Read more

14 customers mention "Creativity"14 positive0 negative

Customers find the book creative and unique. They appreciate the simple story and illustrations that young children can follow. The visuals and language are easy to understand and can be used for different ages of students. Readers praise the author as a great children's book writer and find the book engaging to read.

"...Zero is the second book. The story and illustrations are simple enough that little kids follow it, relate to it and actually enjoy it...." Read more

"...It's very easy to understand, yet there are many subtle moves by the author that some students may not notice...." Read more

"She is such a great children's book writer...." Read more

"Simple language, meaningfully put together story, to the point message." Read more

11 customers mention "Visual style"11 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's visual style. They find the illustrations beautiful and appealing to both children and adults. The design and colors are also praised, with a cute spin on individualism and collaboration that appeals to kids.

"...They are beautifully illustrated and inspire great conversations! There is also One and Two...both great books as well!" Read more

"...A cute spin on idividualism as well as collaboration! I enjoyed reading this quick read." Read more

"...This book is a ten! I love the message of this book. The illustration is simply and beautiful...." Read more

"Beautiful illustrations in this book for the wonderful concept for children kindergarten And first graders loved it!" Read more

4 customers mention "Zoology"4 positive0 negative

Customers find the book a great way to introduce zero. It gives meaning to the number. They love both Zero and One by the same author.

"...Many counting books start at 1, its great to start at zero and work with zero, helps a lot for your children when they are looking at negative..." Read more

"We have One and Two by this author. Zero is wonderful. I love the way she writes and so do our 6 and 8 year olds." Read more

"My students love this book. It gives meaning to the number zero." Read more

"Love both Zero and One by the same author. Simple yet inspiring with a great message. Plus, it's not a chore to read." Read more

3 customers mention "Book content"3 positive0 negative

Customers like the book content. They say it's a must-have book, their 2.5 year old loves it and asks for it almost daily, and a great, multipurpose book that teaches counting and other numerical skills.

"...My 2.5 year old loves it and asks for this book almost daily!" Read more

"Great, multipurpose book which teaches counting and other numerical concepts, while also conveying the important message that we all have something..." Read more

"Must have book !!!" Read more

3 customers mention "Character development"3 positive0 negative

Customers like the character development. They mention different body types, developing characters, and learning what it means to find someone.

"...introduces concepts of accepting different body types, developing character, and learning what it means to find value in yourself and in others...." Read more

"I love this whole set of books! It is character education without being preachy. Numbers people will love the characters!" Read more

"Great story for character education..." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • speaking-oracle
    5.0 out of 5 stars First "One", now "Zero". Modern Classics
    Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    Fantastic book. Such a simple story. And so illustrative! My now 3 year old absolutely loves it. He is a big fan of the first book "One". Zero is the second book.
    The story and illustrations are simple enough that little kids follow it, relate to it and actually enjoy it. I myself find it interesting to read along with our son. The book also carries emotional lessons on sharing, forgiveness, compassion, to name a few (if you want to go deep analysis on a childrens book.)

    The outer cover jacket is thin and prone to scratches. And its black so it amplifies scratches. I recommend taking the dust jacket off as soon as it arrives in the mail and store it away. The book by itself is a hardcover and can take a decent amount of smashing, banging, tugging etc. This way you get to enjoy your book longer.

    We have both the first book, "One" and now this one "Zero". My review of "One" is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R392S94JFQHI2

    Recommend getting both books. Your kids will absolutely relate to both.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Megan
    5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book about numbers
    Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Amazing book about numbers and being true to yourself!
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  • JP
    5.0 out of 5 stars Another great book for teaching!
    Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    This is one of the books I read to my students every year. It's very easy to understand, yet there are many subtle moves by the author that some students may not notice. I read it along with One, and Two which are two other books that Kathryn Otashi wrote that go along with the same theme.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Jewel Sample, award-winning author of Flying Hugs and Kisses
    5.0 out of 5 stars If there was a "Grandma's Choice Award" it would certainly be a winner
    Reviewed in the United States on January 16, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    When Zero looked at herself in the mirror she saw a hole right in her middle. How can a number worth absolutely nothing become worth something? Zero sets out to find worth in herself. She felt empty inside. Zero is a wonderful number book that looks at not only the concept of counting, it tackles the social issue of self acceptance and diversity. I liked how Otoshi used feeling words that most children of three or four year old would not know and gives opportunity to extend their vocabulary. I also found it was fun to stay with the fast paced story to see how the number Zero was going to count. If there was a "Grandma's Choice Award" it would certainly be a winner.
    8 people found this helpful
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  • NSM
    5.0 out of 5 stars All her books
    Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    She is such a great children's book writer. My boys ages 8 and 6 loved this book, and zero is often such a hard concept it is a good thing to introduce at an early age. Many counting books start at 1, its great to start at zero and work with zero, helps a lot for your children when they are looking at negative numbers and the number line. This is a great way to introduce zero!
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Bg
    5.0 out of 5 stars I love reading this book to my son
    Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    I love reading this book to my son! “Zero” not only shares lessons in numbers, but importantly, introduces concepts of accepting different body types, developing character, and learning what it means to find value in yourself and in others. I absolutely adore this book. I like how it can serve as an inspiration to both children and grown- ups. It teaches life lessons that are often hard to grasp as adults and are even harder to speak to children about.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Elsa
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Books That Make For Great Conversations!
    Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    All parents should buy these books for their kids, the messages within this book allow the parent and child to have an open and honest conversation about how actions may have an effect on others and their feelings. They are beautifully illustrated and inspire great conversations! There is also One and Two...both great books as well!
    2 people found this helpful
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  • V R Wms
    4.0 out of 5 stars A cute spin on idividualism as well as collaboration..
    Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    My intentions are to read this book to my 4th graders as a read aloud, during the first week of back to school, focusing on worth, value, self-identity, and place value all in one.

    A cute spin on idividualism as well as collaboration! I enjoyed reading this quick read.
    3 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Joanna
    5.0 out of 5 stars Such a great book for kids!
    Reviewed in Canada on February 20, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Such a fun book my kids loved it.
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  • J R Medina Luna
    3.0 out of 5 stars Buen Producto
    Reviewed in Mexico on November 11, 2023
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    Buen producto
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  • Marla
    5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing just likd ONE and TWO
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 14, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    We have ZERO, ONE, TWO and my 6yo loves them all. The language and pus are super clever.
    Report
  • Acepilot
    5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant book!!!
    Reviewed in India on September 13, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    What an absolutely, mind-blowingly brilliant book this was! I got this book for my 6 year old son who is about to start primary school, I feel this has great life lessons which he needs to understand from a young age! He loved the book and keeps re-reading it over and over again.
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  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great for teaching self love and kindness.
    Reviewed in Canada on August 2, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    I love this book and the children can learn a lot from it
    Report