Same Same.

Following on the tradition of Eats, One Some Many, and Over Under, the husband and wife partnership of Marthe Jocelyn and Tom Slaughter have produced another concept book. The book is aimed at those aged 2–5 and continues their successful formula using a limited number of words and primary colours.

The book introduces children to groups of objects based on their shape, size, colour, or action. Each double-page spread features items linked through a common characteristic such as “long things” (a caboose, a fence, a snake) or “things that go” (a caboose, a truck, a boat). In each case one object is included from the previous category to indicate that things may be characterized in various ways. As with the previous books, the basic text on each page is sparse and never exceeds four words per page. The bright, bold geometric illustrations are painted paper cut shapes on equally bright backgrounds providing an effect that is eye-catching in its simplicity.

Despite the fact that the selection of the categories is rather elusive and there is an unsatisfying abruptness to the ending, there is no doubt that children will enjoy the book. They will be intrigued by the artwork and vivid colours and will delight in identifying objects, establishing similarities, or searching for repeated images. As with the other titles in this series, the book would make a welcome addition to a child’s library. It should be considered an essential item for school and public libraries and would make an enjoyable addition to library programming. Recommended.