Cindy Neuschwander

In another mood, or if I had a child struggling with multiplication, I might round this up to four stars. I like the playful illustrations, the 'diverse rep.' the three pages of notes at the end.* But really it's just another math book for educators... and it's an example of my pet peeve. Arithmetic is just a tiny bit of math, and a bean counter or even a Rainman savant is not a mathematician. Math is logic, probability, geometry, statistics, topology, deduction, etc. etc. and from this book I have no idea if Amanda will be interested in anything other than quick counting.

That being said, arithmetic is important. *And one of the activities at the end, "Which Has More," gives a clue. "Which has more wheels--5 tricycles or 7 bicycles?" Being familiar with the times table will help a grocery shopper quickly estimate whether 15 oz for $1.70 is a better deal than 22 oz for $2.50 or not, and a person can save hundreds of dollars shopping with that strategy of care.

I will look for more arithmetic and math books by the authors.… (more)

This book is based on the legend of King Arthur and the round table which is said in medieval times. During the story, we are introduced to Sir Circumference, Lady Di of Ameter, and their son Radius. Sir Circumference is trying to create a table that would bring unity and promote discussion without having to yell across the room to be heard. When Lady Di heard of this problem she said that Sir Circumference should make a round table. This book introduces readers to basic geometry and encourages the growth of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.… (more)