Mighty Maddie (Mathstart: Level 1)

PreS-Gr 1 -A basic story that teaches comparative weights. Madeline picks up her toys in preparation for her fifth birthday party. As her father helps her, they discuss heavy versus light. Dad gathers the hefty items such as a box of books and a full piggy bank, while Maddie moves a pillow and stuffed animal. The array of gender-mixed playthings scattered throughout the house includes trucks, art supplies, and a dollhouse. "You have to do the rest," says Dad when all the toys are in her room, whereupon the caped figure of "Mighty Maddie" springs into action. A surprise ending shows that Madeline is a bright child who knows what to do in a hurry. Childlike line drawings with bright colors give readers a sense of action. This appealing book has uses beyond the math concept, and offers messages about family life, self-image, and responsibility.-Erlene Bishop Killeen, Fox Prairie Elementary School, Stoughton, WI Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.