The One that Got Away

Percival Everett's 'The One that Got Away' offers a delightfully absurd premise: three cowhands in the Wild West are tasked with chasing and corralling the elusive number 'one.' This early chapter book, though brief, delivers a unique blend of humor and a subtle introduction to numerical concepts. The story maintains a gentle, lighthearted, and humorous arc throughout, focusing on the comical efforts of the cowhands. This book is ideal for children who enjoy silly stories, those just beginning to grasp number recognition, or young readers with an interest in cowboys and the Wild West. A parent might reach for this book when seeking a quick, engaging read-aloud that offers pure entertainment, or an early chapter book that isn't overtly didactic about learning. No specific preparation is needed, as the story is straightforward and fun. Younger children (ages 4-6) will likely be captivated by the absurdity of cowboys chasing numbers and the lively illustrations, while older children (ages 7-8) may appreciate the cleverness of the concept and the situational humor more deeply. Its distinct approach of personifying a number as something to be 'corralled' by cowboys sets it apart from typical counting books or traditional cowboy tales, making it a memorable and charming read.