A well-researched, intriguing account of how counting has evolved.
Schmandt-Besserat recounts how the Paiela, who cultivate orchards
in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, "count by pointing to parts
of their body. . . . The number I is called 'left little finger,'
11 is 'left neck,' 16 is 'right ear,' etc." The Veddas of Sri Lanka
"count without numbers," collecting pebbles to indicate "how many."
She also painstakingly charts the long evolution of counting
through abstract counting, the use of ten digits, and the
advantages of Arabic numerals over the older systems. Her rigorous,
scientific approach to the subject ensures that readers will never
take the counting system for granted again. The full-color
illustrations make history beautifully visual, while a glossary
sets forth concrete definitions for readers to peruse. (Kirkus
Reviews)
Drawing on years of research, a renowned archaeologist traces the evolution of counting. She shows how the concept of numbers came about, how various societies answered the question "How many?," and how our modern-day decimal system was developed. Engrossing and enlightening, this fascinating book introduces children to one of our most important inventions.
00-01 Utah Book Award (Informational Books)
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies 2000, National Council for SS & Child. Book Council
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