Coyotes All Around

Gr 1-3-Taking a fun approach to math, this book introduces the concept of rounding to estimate the sum of several numbers. A group of coyotes stands in front of a desert ranch and wonders how many roadrunners live in the area. They split up, and each one counts the ones that he or she sees. When they are ready to add their numbers, Clever Coyote rounds each figure to the nearest 10, adds them together, and quickly comes up with a close approximation of the actual total. The procedure is repeated with lizards and grasshoppers. Humorous watercolor cartoons depict the action and clarify the concept. Charts help to illustrate how each number is rounded. Factoids about coyotes and other desert creatures appear throughout, so readers learn not only math, but also get their fair share of science sprinkled into the mix. A section entitled "Adults and Kids" includes math games, book suggestions, and ideas for turning grocery shopping into an estimating experience. -Sandra Kitain, Abrams Hebrew Academy, Yardley, PA Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.