Numbermania: A Visual Exploration of 0 to 100

Gr 4-7–Each of the numbers 0–100 is given its own profile in this festive collection of math and cultural fun facts. A “Say it! Write it!” sidebar shows how each number is written and spoken in a wide range of languages, typically English and Spanish, but also Thai, Tagalog, Arabic, and many others. “Show Me” sections demonstrate factorizations. In “Do the Math!” boxes, specific mathematical characteristics are outlined. For instance, 29 is prime and the sum of two squares. Some of the non-math facts defy young reader relevance, such as a reference to American actor Zero Mostel, who died in 1977. A dizzying array of cultures are represented. For example, the Mayan temple of Kulkulcan at Chichen Itza has 91 steps, the nation of Kenya is divided into 47 counties. The design throughout is quirky, colorful, and playful. Every page is uniquely laid out. Some key terms are left undefined in the main text and require a visit to the glossary for understanding. Deeper explanations are sometimes lacking. Readers are told that 13 is often considered an unlucky number, without any attempt at exploring why. The volume concludes with a 12x12 multiplication table and glossary. No source list or suggestions for further reading are featured. Despite those shortcomings, this fun and visually stunning compendium serves to place arithmetic within a broadly cultural context.