Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't

by Sarah Albee, Chris Hsu (illustrator)

How did math work before zero existed? A STEM nonfiction book that unpacks a fascinating history of a number we can’t imagine our current world without.

From place value to being created and destroyed before being created again, zero has had quite a journey. Respected children’s author and consummate researcher Sarah Albee lays out the history of zero alongside the complications that initially hampered its development, including Western imperialism.

A riveting nonfiction kids book with a playful feel, Zero! unravels a complicated history in tremendous detail.

Genres: Nonfiction, Picture Books, History, Mathematics, Childrens, Number, Stem

43 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 11, 2025

Reviews

[donna backshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't makes clear, modern people all have a solid idea of what "nothing" means, but have we ever considered what impact nothing as a number has? Like how do you count nothing? How do you display you have nothing? My son always says you can always show what you do have, but it's impossible to prove what you don't have.

Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't is a wonderful trip through history to discover how we came to conceptualize and represent the idea of nothing mathematically. I for one had never really given it any consideration before, so this was an eye-opening and thoroughly educating view into the origins of "zero", as well as other mathematical concepts and methods.

I love it when a book takes something you took for granted and turns it into an intriguing lesson that will stick with you. It's even better when it's a children's book that simplifies the concept so "even a second grader" can get it, and adds illustrations to drive the points home. I especially enjoyed seeing a not yet accepted Zero sulking in a corner or being chased away by a dog, knowing the poor guy would get welcomed with open arms by the 13th century as one of the ten symbols of the now essential Hindu-Arabic number system.

[Srujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

From rudimentary placeholder to mathematical cornerstone, "Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't" chronicles the epic journey of zero, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to its eventual embrace in Europe.

📌 Before I proceed, I had the opportunity to read this book early thanks to Charlesbridge Publishing and NetGalley, and I'm excited to share my thoughts! No strings attached! All opinions and comments are my own and fully honest.

While I had heard about the contributions of Indian mathematicians like Brahmagupta to this discovery, this book illuminated several previously unknown aspects. For example, the Mayans had a shell-shaped symbol for zero, but it wasn't used extensively in complex calculations, only in calendars. It's sad that this progress was lost due to the Spanish invasions. The contrast was striking: Europe received the significant advances in mathematics, trigonometry, and algebra from Eastern scholars through interactions on the Silk Route, yet met these discoveries with deep suspicion. The book highlights the problems that arise when people base the trustworthiness of knowledge on similarities in religion and habits. However, the dissemination of information accelerated with the invention of the printing press. Quite a connection to make between the printing press and the discovery of zero, isn't it? The illustrations are engaging, simple yet retaining minute cultural details such as the clothing and habits of the people. These illustrations greatly enhanced the book's engagement and comprehension.

For me, this book makes a great addition to any library—personal or institutional—because books like these can hook young readers on the wonderful world of STEAM!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A basic introduction to the history of the numeral zero and the concept of place value. This little picture book is too long for the typical target audience of picture books, but is fascinating and could be used with kids ages 6-8 to help understand the concept of different numbering systems and place value. Plus, it injects a little bit of historical fun into math.

[V · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple introduction to the concept of zero. I am not a fan of maths and would actively steer clear of any 'mathematical concept' but this clearly lays it out and explores some of the cultural and historical elements. It did leave me wanting to know more about some of the number systems mentioned briefly!

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I just finished reading Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't by Sarah Albee, and I couldn't wait to share my thoughts! This book is an absolute gem, and trust me, it's a must-read for both math enthusiasts and those who might shy away from numbers.

At its core, this book takes you on an engaging journey through the history of zero—a concept that we often take for granted in our modern world. Albee dives deep into what life was like before zero was part of our mathematical vocabulary. It’s hard to believe that there was a time when mathematicians had to grapple with calculations without this essential number! The book explores the ups and downs of zero's existence, highlighting how it was created, almost lost, and then rediscovered, all while touching on the cultural influences that shaped its journey.

First off, can we talk about how eye-catching the cover is? It immediately drew me in with its playful design! Albee has a knack for making complex topics accessible, and this book is no exception. It succinctly explains the origins of zero, when it emerged, and the reasons behind its invention. The way she blends math, history, and cultural context makes this book not only informative but incredibly engaging.

The text is clear and fun—which is no small feat when discussing something as intricate as mathematics. I love how Albee manages to cater to both math lovers and those who might have a more complicated relationship with numbers. The illustrations by Chris Hsu are fantastic too! They add an extra layer of enjoyment and provide additional details that complement the narrative beautifully.

Moreover, the back matter is a treasure trove of information. It features a timeline of zero's history along with notes about the artistic choices made throughout the book. This added content is a wonderful resource for anyone curious to learn more.

In summary, Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't is not just a book; it's an enlightening experience that reveals the fascinating story of a number that has profoundly shaped our world. Whether you're young or just young at heart, I wholeheartedly recommend this delightful read. You’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for zero and its important place in our lives!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a nonnumber that most of us just take for granted. But through many years and civilizations the idea of a placeholder for the concept of nothing was developed and sometimes feared. From everyday matters to the development of algebra the concept of zero eventually became more accepted. Because of the PRINTING PRESS!
The illustrations by Chris Hsu are detailed, and delightfully colorful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone any age from 6 and up, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected eGalley on Adobe Digital Editions from Charlesbridge via NetGalley. Avail Mar 11, 2025
#Illustrated #NetGalley #goodreads #bookbub #librarythingofficial #barnesandnoble #waterstones ***** Review #booksamillion #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #childrensbookcouncil #kobo
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[BethK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

This short, easily-readable book explains the history of the numeral zero, how and when it came to be, and why it was invented. It's a combination mathematics book, history book, and describes some of the cultures involved. This is the only book concerning zero - and its histories (and there are several histories) that is easily readable by a common person, including a middle-schooler with little knowledge of mathematics and none in advanced mathematics. The history and geography questions that come up are concisely explained.

I chose this book precisely because I did a term paper on zero as well as its history. I am amazed at how much relevant information is covered as simply as it is. Anyone who has ever attempted to make computations using Roman Numerals understands the importance of zero and the place value system!

Illustrations are intriguing, and show approximately what was to make this book more visually appealing. That includes illustrating lesser-known facts.

[Carol Foote · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly delightful, fascinating book that should appeal to math lovers and math haters alike! The fun, clear, informative text tells the history of how zero came to be a number and why. Following the ups and downs of zero’s path to acceptance through different cultures and many centuries, you’ll be dismayed to learn how long it took for such a great, useful idea to take hold in the world! Today, it is appalling that people in Europe were suspicious of zero as a “dangerous, foreign idea” or even “the work of the devil.” The illustrations are perfect—fun, clever, and full of information. Readers will be amused by the cute figure zero with eyes and personality. Back matter includes more info, a timeline of the history of zero, and notes about the art. I love this thought-provoking book, and I think both young and old, would enjoy it.

[Michelle Cusolito · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book description and other reviews describe the content of the book, so I won’t repeat all that. I’ll stick to my personal response, which is I love this book! I wish I had it when I was still teaching elementary school! It’s a brilliant mix of math, history, culture, and science. I would have used it every single year in my classroom. Albee is such a skilled writer that she was able to include a long sweep of history while keeping it engaging and clear for young readers. Hsu’s illustrations are the perfect complement. And don’t miss the “Notes About the Art” on the last page: there are details to go back and find in the illustrations. Kids will love that!
#STEM #STEAM #STEAMTeamBooks #KidsLoveNonfiction

[Rebecca Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't was absolutely fantastic. I thoroughly enjoy learning about the history and origins of various topics, so I was eager to read this as I have never thought to contemplate where zero came from and knew nothing of its origin. Zero! was full of excellent information presented simply and understandably. My young son read this along with me and found it fascinating, too. The art was well done, and I enjoyed the extra information and explanations on pages 36-39. This book would be the perfect addition to anyone's library - kid or not!

Thank you to NetGalley, Charlesbridge, and Sarah Albee for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Charlesbridge for the digital arc.
Picture book history of the mathematical concept of “zero”, from the centuries before it existed to the present. Fascinating book which I wish I had read as a child, and also used with my students. Goes beyond the importance of zero to address of development arithmetic, geometry, algebra, calculus and a myriad of other subjects and science. Chris Hsu's illustrations are the perfect compliment to Albee's clear and concise text. Excellent back matter with definitions, timeline, and bibliography. Definitely add to your collection and share with parents, teachers, and students.

[Ann Staats · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fascinating! It brings readers on a journey of early math thought. An idea—including zero in our number system—that seems so obvious now, went through a rough and slow acceptance for many people. This complex history, spanning centuries and continents, is told is an engaging text that drew me in immediately. Yet zero itself is a seemingly simple concept, proving that sometimes the simplest things can have the most profound impact. Add in the gorgeous illustrations (and fun Zero character), and this is a book destined for greatness. I highly recommend it for both classroom settings and home library collections.

[Shruthi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully researched book takes the reader through the entire history of Zero in a fun, easily understandable and accessible way. The illustrations complement the text perfectly.

We take zero for granted but the concept was mind-blowing when introduced - and this book does a great job of bringing out that sense of wonder.

I love the little red "0" through the pages, reacting to/portraying whatever is happening on the page.

Great backwater too, for those who want to learn more. There should be a copy in every library/classroom!

Highly recommend!

[Leslie Barnard Booth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This engaging book blends mathematics and history to tell the fascinating and true story of how zero was invented. Now we take this number for granted, but as I learned from "Zero!", for a long time zero didn't exist, and once it was invented, some people didn't accept it. Some were suspicious of it or even considered it dangerous! Wow! Just one of many fun facts that awaits you in these pages! I highly recommend this book for home, school, and library settings, and for anyone curious about how zero, and math as we know it, came to be!

[Christine Zandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

How often do we think of nothing as in zero?! This is such an interesting topic to explore with kids because zero is taken for granted yet such a critical number. I enjoyed this history of how zero came into being. Like a lot of other discoveries, zero existed, then didn't because that knowledge was lost for various reasons--this lends itself to another discussion-opener in classrooms and such. While this book include historical information, it's also about math which means it has a far reach into the curriculum.

[Sara Mion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an extremely informative book about how the number zero came to be, and all of the bumps along the road and history of how numbers were recorded throughout time and in different cultures!

The explanations are short and concise, but spare no important details to share the story of zero.

A great way you to make the concept of “nothing” more concrete for elementary grade students.

Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for sharing a copy of this book for me to review.

[Bethe · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars. Today we take zero for granted, a welcome and useful part of everyday life. But it wasn’t always that way. An intriguing and easily understood look at the evolution of zero from early humans until it became universally accepted in the 1700s. Love the illustrations, the 0 in most spreads, the extensive back matter, even different case cover art, and notes about the art (what to look for in the pics).

[Chrissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This will find a place in my nonfiction collection. The concept of zero is a simple idea that does need a bit of explanation for children. This fun book, with friendly illustrations does a clear job with that explanation. Including the history of the "discovery" and use of zero through many cultures around the world is a wonderful idea.

[Ellon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars (I loved it)

Who knew that a book about nothing could be so interesting? This is a great nonfiction picture book that explains the evolution of number systems and the invention of the number 0. It is written in easy to understand text. Even the artwork has opportunities to learn history (look for the note about art at the end). I highly recommend this book!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did you know that Zero had to be invented? That humans had no concept of nothing? And even after after some cultures embrased and used Zero, other cultures were slow to adopt it? Sarah Albee's story of Zero is a great introduction to the value of this number. The illustrations were fun, too, with a Zero with eys and arms and legs hanging out in almost every picture.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, historical description of how zero came about. I liked that it also touched on the number systems used by different peoples. Glossary with a few words that many get confused. ARC from NetGalley

[Danielle Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.

I never knew zero had such a journey to acceptance and use in the world. A great, fun, informative picture book about how there used to be no zero and how it came to life in around the world.

[Sandhya Acharya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book manages to take a ton of research and present it in a very condensed and enjoyable format for kids. This will be such a great addition for kids beginning to learn about place value and understanding, zero, tens, 100s etc. The illustrations are playful and engaging.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed this picture book about ZERO - a mathematical concept that might seem obvious to us but, well, hasn't always been. The text presents this in a kid-friendly fashion that will get young readers thinking!

[Shoshanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really loved this short history about the concept of 0. This may be the first piece I have read about mathematical history? It was interesting to see how long the idea of 0 was bubbling in all different places and how it traveled over time. Highly recommended!

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can hear my kids now: "Ms. Moore, this is library, not math class!"
To which I always respond: "Library is about EVERYTHING!"

What a great jumping off point for historical research, geography, timelines, and languages.

[Crissi Brandhuber · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s mind blowing that there wasn’t a zero for thousands of years. I love a good math book, and this one delivers on the history of zero. Better yet, the extra history lesson at the back explaining the Easter eggs in the illustrations was so much fun to go back and look for.

[Marcie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course this may not be for everyone, but I haven’t read much hisory of math since 1970 when my favorite college class was history of math. A little too long for a read aloud but I can see middle schools making great use of this.

[Abbigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Approachable math-focused children's nonfiction book. Lots of backmatter including definitions, more info about the illustrations, and a detailed timeline about the history of zero.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an adult, I enjoyed this look into the history of the zero. However, I don’t think kids will care.