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Learning Wrap-Ups: Basic Math Introductory Kit

Book cover: 'Learning Wrap-Ups: Basic Math Introductory Kit'

These colorful key-shaped plastic flash cards allow students to practice basic Math skills by wrapping a string around the ribbed edges of each card to identify the correct answer. (Cards are attached together on a pivot point in groupings of 10 cards organized by operation.) The cards are cleverly self-correcting - when the child finishes each card, they simply flip it over; when all answers are correct, the string will match the diagram on the back of the card. The basic operations sets are simple equations where you match the equation to the correct answer.

Algebra I: A Teaching Textbook

Book cover: 'Algebra I: A Teaching Textbook'
Author(s): 
Greg and Shawn Sabouri

Over the years I have used several different Algebra programs with my children. With Peter, this is the fourth Algebra program we have tried. For various reasons, they have never met our expectations. At long last with Teaching Textbooks Algebra I, we have found one that works.

Before writing a review, I wanted to wait until Peter had completed most of the textbook, so that I would avoid any unpleasant surprises. Right now, he has completed about 2/3rds of the text and my opinion has not changed. This program is a homeschool mom's dream come true.

Robin Hood and the Golden Arrow

Author(s): 
Robert D. San Souci
Illustrator(s): 
Earl B. Lewis

Robin Hood and the Golden Arrow retells the classic story of Robin Hood and his men in the Sherwood Forest in the adventure of the archery contest. The villainous Sheriff of Nottingham intends to trap Robin at the contest but the Merry Men turn the tables in this lighthearted retelling for younger children. The oversize format and colorful watercolors bring the well-known story to life, adding some details from the original sources. The Author's Note at the end of the book explains a little about the origins and sources of the classic tale.

Do Re Mi

Author(s): 
Susan Roth

A dear blog reader recommended this picture book on the life of Guido d'Arezzo, the Benedictine monk who came up with the system for writing music one thousand years ago–the same system we still use today. I requested it via inter library loan since our library does not own the title.

All the World

Author(s): 
Elizabeth Garton Scanlon
Illustrator(s): 
Marla Frazee

Illustrators are so crucial in picture books! If you love our favorite picture book, The Seven Silly Eaters, you will love the illustrations in this one by the same artist. In a good picture book, the illustrations have the power to take you to another world, even if temporarily. Illustrator Marla Frazee's style is captivating, warm, delightful!

Louisa

Author(s): 
Yona Zeldis McDonough
Illustrator(s): 
Bethanne Andersen

I love picture books and I love biographies... and I love it when both are combined successfully! This warmly illustrated picture book tells of the most beloved American author Louisa May Alcott. Her family was definitely sui generis, holding unusual beliefs and moving often, and Louisa began thinking and writing poetry at a very young age.

This picture book sheds light on what a noble soul Louisa had, filled of generosity, integrity and character. Highly recommended especially for young readers who love the wonderful Little Women author.

Black? White! Day? Night!

Author(s): 
Laura Vaccaro Seeger

Here's a clever picture book about opposites! We loved it so much, the kids told me this had to be a picture book of the week.

Each page has a one-work question, such as "alike?" Each page has one or more cut-out windows, showing a picture–in this case, several "alike" diamonds. Flip the page and the picture of an opposite concept is shown: the little "alike" diamonds were actually all part of several very differently-shaped snowflakes!