Flight 1, 2, 3

Starred review from February 25, 2013
This clever numeric companion to Lieshout’s Backseat A-B-See also uses graphic signage to drive home its concept—this time with an air travel theme. As a family of three moves through an airport, numbers one to 10 take them through the check-in process: adhering to five signs, the boy tosses out his water bottle, the mother an aerosol can, and the father a pair of scissors; removing their shoes at the security check, the family bypasses six security officers. Cleverly, most of the other figures that are seen are white silhouettes, like the kind that often appear on signs on restroom doors. Just the thing to pack in a carry-on bag, van Lieshout’s smart book is equal parts sleek modern art, counting primer, and entirely useful step-by-step guide for first-time fliers. Ages 3–6. Agent: Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House.