Reviews (12)

Not for Teaching Kids!!!
This book is inadequate to explore the concepts that it puts forward, and the reader will not be able to use it effectively until they go through and fill in the wide gaps left by the author. The techniques within it are not universal to all numbers, and the author fails to mention this on numerous occasions. All in all, this book was designed to make money, while offering the illusion of "cheating" your way through math. Some methods within it are useful, while others only overcomplicate, and ultimately undermine, standard education techniques for mathematics, the standard way oftentimes being the more accurate, and quicker, way to do the examples within. Math is hard, sure, and that does make a lot of people hate it, but this book will make you hate it more, at least until you figure out what a scam it is.

Good book even though it comes up short in some areas...
I wanted to read this book ever since seeing the infomercial of Scott doing his thing on tv. I couldn't afford or justify the expense to buy the big commerical package so this book had to do. The methods are easy to follow and Mr. Flansburg does a good job expressing his mind set in how he mentally did the problems. The basic addition and multiplications methods are good but the examples were insufficient when dealing with mixed numbers of different lengths. There were also exceptions to many of the rules that weren't expressed. Finally, the last part of the book with special rules were so numerious it would take a year to effectively learn and apply them all from memory. This leads me to believe that Mr. Flansburg didn't tell everything he knows, like the quick way to determine change -- by changing say ten bucks to 9.99 and subtracting that from the amount owed; then add one cent to get the correct change. It's easier to subtract 9 since its the highest value you can have in each column. This was presented by him on a night time radio show he was a guest on. I do give him prasie for getting people young and old to stop depending on calculators and learn mental speed math.

Boost for Math Dummies
A reading of this book quickly reveals our public education system as stodgy and nonprogressive.If you or anyone you know is having problems with math of any kind, please spend a little money on this book before spending a ton of money on tutors and such!If I'd had this book, or been exposed to the information therein, when I was in k-12, my math scores would have been much higher! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Arithmetic    2. Children: Grades 4-6    3. General    4. Juvenile Nonfiction    5. Mathematics    6. Mathematics - Arithmetic    7. Study and teaching (Elementary    8. Study and teaching (Elementary)    9. Reference / General   

Reviews (4)

[Insert title here]
I have not much to say. But for being from New Orleans and being rescued and all and trying to get used to a new school, it was tough. Then I failed math. Even worse. But this book so far is helping me catch up.

Real-life, practical, outstanding transition to 2ndary math
As a former K - 8 Mathematics Supervisor in high-flying school district, I can verify the validity of this Transition program in providing you the unique opportunity of actually being prepared for secondary mathematics of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and precalculus, if you go that far. You should study this book beyond what your teacher does with it, because it is best applied as a two-year broad introductory mathematical program. If you do so, you will not be hit with a brick wall in trying to do the dreaded word problems in algebra and beyond. This book is relevant, the math is real, and it is backed with over twenty years of acutal research, instead of authors' best guesses as to what works. But it will take getting used to. If you're willing to make the effort, doors will open in your future.

Good, but someone difficult
I have to use this book for school, its good until the 7th chapter, then it starts to get confusing. I now have to do Algebra- the second one in the series. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 4-6    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - General   

Subjects:  1. Children: Young Adult (Gr. 10-12)    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - Algebra    4. Mathematics - Geometry   

Subjects:  1. Activity Books - General    2. Children: Kindergarten    3. Education / Teaching    4. Juvenile Mathematics    5. Juvenile Nonfiction    6. Mathematics - Arithmetic    7. Preschool & Kindergarten    8. Workbooks   

Reviews (3)

Ingenious!
Almost exactly ninety years ago, Sam Loyd's 'Cyclopaedia of Puzzles' was published in New York. This was a collection of a very large number of his puzzles which had mostly appeared in the American Press. Many were illustrated with delightful pictures at the head of the page, drawn in Sam's own hand. Barry Clarke's new book has marked similarities in layout with illustrations drawn by the author at the head of many pages and many puzzles had previously appeared in the 'Brain Twister' column in the Daily Telegraph. The drawings are remarkably like Sam Loyd's, but there the similarity stops. Sam Loyd's book was foolscap size and hard bound while Barry's has the typical Dover cover, but the real difference is in the puzzles themselves. Barry's puzzles are graded in difficulty, so that readers who do not wish to be challenged too much can start with the first section and gradually work themselves in. Also, the puzzles are ingenious and well thought out and hints are provided before the full solutions for those who need a bit of steering. This is altogether a very good read, guaranteed to keep the puzzler in the family busy over Christmas. I thoroughly recommend it. The Mathematical Poetry of a Puzzle Artist: Barry R. Clarke
In this most recent adventure into the Puzzling World of Barry R. Clarke, I found my mind quite well entertained. What I enjoy most about logic puzzles is their requirement for little if any prior knowledge, and each of Barry's "puzzlers" is no different. However, what is missing in most logic and mathematical puzzle books is a touch of true creativity and humor. In Brain Busters! I found that while my mathematical mind was challenged to the limit, I was also encouraged to think in new and original ways, moving from basic logic to the simple yet complex world of recreational mathematics. Barry Clarke pushes your mind to the edge with this most recent creation, and holds you there. Mind S-t-r-e-t-c-h-i-n-g!
I'm always thrilled when an exciting book of puzzles appears on the bookshelves, especially if it is by Barry Clarke.Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's All Ages - Games    2. Games    3. Games/Puzzles    4. Logic & Brain Teasers    5. Logic, Symbolic and mathematic    6. Logic, Symbolic and mathematical    7. Mathematical recreations    8. Puzzles    9. Recreations & Games    10. Games / Puzzles    11. Puzzles & quizzes   

Editorial Review

Believe it or not, math doesn't have to be a torture device teachers useto punish their students. In fact, with a few simple tricks, math canbecome--dare we say it?--fun! Greg Tang, creator of the popular Read more

Reviews (5)

Highly recommend!
I have been waiting for any books from this series. This one is another wonderful, innovative counting book that's ready to challenge children who just start their math thinking. Each thoughtfully designed problem, posed as a riddle, and told in engaging rhyme is presented together with eye-catching and mind-stretching illustrations. No more boredom in counting the old way. The authors help kids think creatively by looking for patterns, relations and recognizing groupings. Young children will feel a real sense of accomplishment as they begin to develop the problem solving skills and tactics they'll use for the rest of their lives. With a helpful hint at the end of each rhyme to perk up the interest, and a straight forward, easy to understand answer key at the end, many kids don't even know they're working on math problems. They're just having fun!
Beautiful Book
This is a beautiful book, an important factor to consider when attempting to interest a child in working with numbers in generaland solving equations in particular.The illustrations are eye-catching, the colours are bright, the paper is thick and glossy, and the book is a nice size for parent and child to read together at bedtime.My child has no interest in math, and I found that appealling to her more imaginative side as this book does sparked her curiosity.The method theauthor has used to pique children's interest in solving basic mathematical problems is creative and engaging.
Early Number Sense
I just went through this book with my six year old son and he absolutely loved it!It shows different ways to think of counting objects by grouping them in easy multiples.I think it's a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn that there are many ways to solve a math problem, too.My son enjoyed explaining 'his way' and hearing 'my way'.It's a great book for early number sense (mental math) and has beautiful illustrations, too. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Arithmetic    2. Children's 4-8 - Mathematics    3. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Nonfiction    4. Children: Grades 1-2    5. Concepts - Counting & Numbers    6. Counting    7. Juvenile Fiction    8. Juvenile literature    9. Mathematics    10. Mathematics - Arithmetic    11. Mathematics - Games & Recreations    12. Study and teaching (Elementary    13. Study and teaching (Elementary)    14. Juvenile Nonfiction / Mathematics / General   

Reviews (3)

Another great book from Greg Tang!
Greg Tang encourages his audience to develop number sense in a lively way. With the help of this and his other books, you can encourage your students to develop a more fluid approach to math. I have used many of his books in my classroom, and find it is best to pre-teach his way of combining number sets before reading the book aloud (just a short lesson).
Math and Art - What A Great Combo!
I love this book and have shared it with colleagues!What a great idea to combine math and art, and what a great way to tackle problem solving which is not always a favourite with kids!For teachers, it helps us cover two subject areas at the same time which we greatly appreciate.When I saw the cover of this book, I was instantly intrigued.I liked the fact that it's suitable for all age groups -- older students may appreciate the art history aspect more, but the rhymes appeal to all ages.The illustrations jump out, are appealing and make math more interesting.When I showed this book to some of my students, one instantly said that it was "neat" because everyone came up with a different way of getting the answer yet everyone was right, to which I responded with a delighted smile!

Wonderful math/art connection
Bravo, Greg Tang has done it once again!This wonderful book is full of authentic masterpieces which Tang recreates to get us looking at the art in a "math kind of way!"This book is super for all elementary levels, kindergarten through grade five.The focus is on addition, and the many ways we can group numbers to get to a given sum.We love it! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art - History    2. Art appreciation    3. Art in mathematical education    4. Children's Books/Ages 9-12 Nonfiction    5. Children: Grades 3-4    6. Counting    7. Juvenile Fine Arts    8. Juvenile Mathematics    9. Juvenile Nonfiction    10. Juvenile literature    11. Mathematics - General    12. Set theory    13. Juvenile Nonfiction / Mathematics / General   

Reviews (2)

Cleaver and Helpful
The book is organized very well and is extremely useful. The activities range from explanatory to challenging depending on the students level. It is a must for anyone forced to use a boring textbook such as the Saxon Series. It helps to keep the students challenged and interested.

It was worth the money
My lower-level sophomores loved the various activities.The students were far more motivated than when working out of the book.Some of the activities are much easier than others.There is a wide variety of topics and the format is slightly different for each activity.It was nice that the students could "check" their answers on many of the sheets. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Education    2. Education / Teaching    3. Elementary    4. Mathematics    5. Secondary    6. Study and teaching (Middle school)    7. Study and teaching (Secondary)    8. Teaching Methods & Materials - Mathematics    9. Education / Teaching Methods & Materials / Mathematics    10. Teaching of a specific subject   

Reviews (3)

Adult Victim of "New Math" Finally Knows How to Add!
Have you ever had a struggle or mental block that simply never went away; one that made you feel self-conscious, ineffective, and utterly inept?Well, for me, that bugaboo has always been � embarrassingly enough � addition.Yes, simple addition. A King's Review
The king has struck again. He has created havoc in his kingdom by creating too many commissioners. He has commissioners for foul balls, rainy days,and counting to name a few. The time comes when he must count how manycommissioners he has. He calls on his counting commissioners who begin thelong task. His daughter the princess helps count as well. Each personcounts a different way to please the King but he can only follow the logicof one. That person is....... buy the book! This book is a great read formany ages and can be used in and out of school.

What a wonderful math literature book for young children
This book is a great book for younger children in first grade.It goes threw the math concept of regrouping.The children love the story line and also the illustrations.It makes a great read aloud in the classroom. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Fiction    2. Children: Grades 1-2    3. Counting    4. Fiction    5. General    6. Juvenile Nonfiction    7. Kings, queens, rulers, etc.    8. Mathematics   

Subjects:  1. Mathematics   

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 4-6    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - General   

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 4-6    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - General   

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 4-6    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - General    4. Mathematics   

Reviews (4)

Best Math Supplement for Preschoolers
I ordered this book not knowing what it was going to be like.When it got here and I started flipping thru it all that came to my mind is amazing. My son loves this book particulary the star sticker systemwhere the child receives a star for every page it has finished. The pages are set upin a simple manner so your child almost automatically understands what it has to do.The book teaches your child all the math basics from counting tosame size, same number, greater , smaller etc. So sit down with your toddler and have fun learning math using this book :D

Math Made Easy Kindergarten Workbook
My 5 year old daughter loved this book.It kindled a real interest in learning.She found that being able to stick a gold star on the progress chart for each completed page gave her a great sense of achievment.I felt the workbook gave an excellent introduction to all mathematic principals in a varied and child friendly manner.The book progresses gradually, reinforcing the all the skills and math concepts that 5-6 year olds should be familiar with.We were so impressed that we bought the next book in the series.

Great Book!!!
This is a great book. It really does make math easy! It's worth the price. I got this for my children and it's a great math book. It is very easy for children to follow and learn. It came with gold star stickers my children love to get on their papers. This is a workbook for children.It has parental or teachers instructions page by page in the back of the book. The book starts with the number 1. It has pictures asking the child how many of the objects are their, at the bottom of the page it has"copy the pattern". Then they write the word One, match the number one with how many objects their are in a group, Then it proceeds on to the number 2 - 10. Then the book goes through various activities such as connect the dots using the numbers 1-10. The numbers 11 & 12 are on one workbook page, 13&14 and so on to 19 & 20. Then it goes to can you remember, More than activities, add one more, add 2 more, take 1 away etc teaching simple adding and subtraction. The book reviews shapes, thick and thin lines, tall, short, color, inside & outside, front and behind, beside, between, the same, different, sorting, find the missing numbers etc. One suggestion is to make copies for later lessons. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's 4-8 - Education    2. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Nonfiction    3. Children: Kindergarten    4. Concepts - General    5. Juvenile Nonfiction    6. Mathematics - General    7. Study Aids - General    8. Study Aids - Mathematics    9. Study Aids - Workbooks    10. Juvenile Nonfiction / Mathematics / General    11. Children's   

Reviews (2)

Colorful pictures, but.....
Lots of colorful pictures, but difficult to explain sorting because you can't move the objects around on the pages.It would be easier if you had actual objects to sort.So, I would recommend using actual objects instead of this book.

Concepts Simplified!
This is a wonderful book to use to teach the concept of sorting (why objects are grouped together in a particular way).I've used this bookwith my second grade class and they really loved the simple, colorfulphotographs depicting everyday objects.My two and a half year olddaughter also enjoys the simple, no-nonsense text used to explain thissomtimes difficult math concept.Very engaging book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Nonfiction    2. Children: Grades 1-2    3. Concepts - Size & Shape    4. Juvenile Nonfiction    5. Juvenile literature    6. Mathematics - General    7. Set theory   

Reviews (6)

My son LOVESSSSSSSSSSSthis book
My son actually pick this book out by himself in a bookstore when he was 18 months old.He fell in LOVE with it.We had to read it every morning.We loss it transit and I finally remember to get it from Amazon this summer.At 2 1/2 it is still his favorite book.He loves the counting and the actvities reminds him of when "Granny-Gran" comes to visit.Thank you so much for this book.

Feast For 10

A book packed with curriculum ideas!
This book has been around for a long time, but it continues to be a favorite in my classroom. It's one of those simple books that sparks so many different curriculum paths! Counting, number groupings, nutrition, cooperation, family activities, word choices, story writing, and more. It has also initiated collage art projects, quilt making, and paper mache vegetables! FEAST FOR 10 is a goldmine. I see that it's coming out in a board book soon, too. We have both the hardcover and several paperbacks in my class. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. African Americans    2. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Fiction    3. Children: Grades 1-2    4. Cookery    5. Counting    6. Family life    7. Fiction    8. People & Places - United States - African-American    9. Preschool Mathematics Skills    10. Juvenile Fiction / Ethnic / African American    11. Numbers & counting   

Reviews (5)

Brilliant book
I found this book incredibly interesting, and I'm no maths fan - I leafed through it while babysitting for a friend who has a son of 9, then I bought the book for myself! It is so well written and extremely funny in parts. I would recommend this book to anyone of any age. I guarantee you will learn something new.
A great book for all ages & levels
This is a truly awesome book, full of fascinating insights, entertaining all the way through and amazingly wide in scope, ranging from school math to jokes, puzzles, games and high-level topics like chaos. Note that the "mistake" mentioned in the first editorial review is not really a mistake but an old joke: How many animals of each sex did Moses take on the Ark? The answer of course is "none - it was Noah who built the Ark!"

FOR ALL AGES 7-70
THE BOOK WAS BOUGHT FOR A 7 YEAR OLD, BUT I SPENT AN ENTIRE AFTERNOON READING IT.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's Books/Ages 9-12 Nonfiction    2. Children: Grades 3-4    3. Children: Grades 4-6    4. Curiosities & Wonders    5. Juvenile Mathematics    6. Juvenile Nonfiction    7. Juvenile literature    8. Mathematical recreations    9. Mathematics    10. Mathematics - Games & Recreations    11. Mathematics - General    12. Problems, exercises, etc.    13. Juvenile Nonfiction / Mathematics / General   

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 4-6    2. Juvenile Nonfiction    3. Mathematics - General   

Reviews (9)

7 year old math fiend enjoyed this book
My son really enjoyed this book for its interesting presentation of math..he even named a cat puppet after Penrose.

Mathematics Made Simple
This book is a good resource for teachers!It is full of fun, interesting, and relatively simple activities that make abstract mathematical concepts come to life.Math is made less intimidating, because the mystery behind it is revealed by a curious cat with whom children can relate.The book takes mathematical concepts that might otherwise be too complex for children to grasp and simplifies them, making them more "kid friendly."Younger children, who are more likely to enjoy the cat's stories, may not fully appreciate the mathematical content.They will, however, benefit from the books pleasant introduction to mathematical concepts. Similarly, older children, who are more likely to fully appreciate the mathematical content, may not enjoy Penrose as much (or at least they might not admit that they do). However, learning with Penrose will still make the experience less intimidating.The book is clever and a great tool for teaching math, while easing and/or preventing math phobia.I will definitely use this book in my own classroom!

Mathematical Concepts Made Simple
This book is a great resource for teachers!It is full of fun, interesting, and easy activities that really help its abstract mathematical concepts come to life. The book takes concepts that might otherwise be hard to grasp in their complexity and simplifies them, making them more "kid friendly." Learning from and with a cat, who is just as curious as they are, also helps make things less intimidating for children who are slightly math phobic. I will definitely be using this book in my own classroom! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's Books/Ages 9-12 Fiction    2. Children: Grades 3-4    3. Juvenile Fiction    4. Mathematics    5. Science & Technology    6. Science & Technology - Mathematics    7. Study and teaching (Elementary    8. Study and teaching (Elementary)   

Reviews (2)

What Can You Do With 10 Black Dots?
In fact, quite a bit can be done with a big dot.I gave my son and daughter some large dots and we had fun experimenting with what we could make out of them.
Ten black dots that stir the imagination
This is a fun book for young children. With the large pictures and font, the book begs to be touched and held and read!It could be used to reinforce a math lesson on counting objects.Afterward, the teacher/parent could give each child ten black dots, crayons, and paper and have them use their imagination to see what they could make. I think every young child should have a chance to hear or read this book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Fiction    2. Children: Preschool    3. Concepts - General    4. Counting    5. Stories in rhyme    6. Fiction    7. Juvenile Fiction / Concepts / General    8. Mathematics    9. Picture books