Zero! The Number That Almost Wasn't

Illustrated by Chris Hsu
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.
Born in Taipei, Taiwan and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Chris Hsu is an incessantly inquisitive man. After receiving a marketing degree from the University of Florida he attended the Savannah College of Art & Design where he finally discovered the rewarding science of painting and illustration, both of which he continues to pursue with great zeal. In addition to illustrating for editorial, narrative, and agency work, Chris also specializes in animation background art and is currently a background artist on the animated series Archer. The Boo-Boos That Changed the World is Chris's first picture book. View titles by Chris Hsu
  • SELECTION | 2025
    Junior Library Guild Selection

About

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.

Author

Born in Taipei, Taiwan and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Chris Hsu is an incessantly inquisitive man. After receiving a marketing degree from the University of Florida he attended the Savannah College of Art & Design where he finally discovered the rewarding science of painting and illustration, both of which he continues to pursue with great zeal. In addition to illustrating for editorial, narrative, and agency work, Chris also specializes in animation background art and is currently a background artist on the animated series Archer. The Boo-Boos That Changed the World is Chris's first picture book. View titles by Chris Hsu

Awards

  • SELECTION | 2025
    Junior Library Guild Selection

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