A Knotty Problem

Tensions Rise Between the Math Kids

When Stephanie finds out her soccer team has a tournament on the same day as the district math competition, an upset Justin offers her a choice: choose Math Kids or leave the club. Dismayed by his attitude, Stephanie quits and Catherine goes with her. With their club in shambles, the future of their friendships is further threatened by the news that Justin's dad has been offered a new job and wants to move his family to St. Louis.

Jordan, Justin, Catherine, and Stephanie may face the permanent fracture of their friend group and a bleak end to their school year—unless they can come together to overcome some impossible situations.

Problem solving skills apply to much more than homework in the latest addition to the Math Kids series.

A Knotty Problem continues the Math Kids series' streak of providing entertainment and enlightenment. ~ Foreword Reviews

Ably demonstrates finding thoughtful solutions for common problems. ~ Kirkus Reviews

David Cole has been interested in math since he was a very young boy. He pursued degrees in math and computer science and has shared this love of math at many levels, including teaching at the college level, coaching elementary math teams, and running a summer math camp. He also has a love of writing and has written a number of plays that have been performed. The Math Kids was born of a desire to combine his interests and exercise both sides of his brain at the same time. Find him on his website or on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.


Shannon O'Toole has been illustrating children's books since 2018. Originally a figurative painter, Shannon has been exploring new ways to tell stories through her art. Her artistic practices are inspired by the many unique characters and people in her life. In addition to her work in children's books, Shannon is an elementary school teacher. When she is not painting, she can be found drinking coffee, watching classic movies and exploring new recipes in her kitchen. Shannon lives and works outside of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.