Powerful Mathematicians Who Changed the World, Grades PK-2: Talithia Williams, Dazzling Us with Data

Dazzling Us with Data is part of the Powerful Mathematicians Who Changed the World Book Series

How can we find answers to what we want to learn? Who can help us think about what to do or where to turn? Dr. Talithia Williams, that’s who! Before Dr. Williams became a powerful mathematician, she was a young girl with many interests, including math. Dazzling Us with Data shares parts of her early years—such as exploring the outdoors, working at the grocery store, and feeling daunted by being one of only a few Black girls in class—and how she applied math to these situations. In addition to learning about Dr. Williams, young readers will get excited about doing math thanks to the interesting questions and math problems throughout the book, and teachers and caregivers can use the discussion and activity prompts to engage young mathematicians in the classroom or at home. Dr. Williams is sure to inspire a new generation of mathematicians who change the world!</

Kelly Buchheister is an associate professor in the Department of Child, Youth, and Family Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Her research centers on early mathematics development and on building inclusive, culturally responsive classroom practices.

Amy Napoli is an associate professor in Child, Youth, and Family Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She researches early childhood education with a focus on mathematics development and family engagement.