Math Tricks, Puzzles and Games

Gr. 4-7. Blum, a middle-school teacher whose alter ego is "Professor Numbers," presents a collection of coin and card tricks, mathematical games, geometric puzzlers, brain teasers, and calculator riddles sure to intrigue children who enjoy math. Even those who don't shine in math class may find the games and cartoon illustrations appealing. Some of the tricks will seem like magic, until the child plays around with them long enough for the principles to sink in. Line drawings clarify the procedures for some of the tricks. A good resource for teachers looking for original approaches to math and for children who like magic tricks and mental puzzlers. Carolyn Phelan