Squares, Rectangles, and Other Quadrilaterals

Adler and Miller have created another math-themed picture book to help young minds further understand polygons. What could be seen as an intimidating subject for students, young and old, becomes less so through the use of an inviting format and cute cartoon animals. Miller's bright, digitally drawn shapes appear alongside colorful cats and dogs. Each quadrilateral is described in great detail, identifying the number of sides, types of angles, and the degrees. Throughout the text, key words are highlighted by their varying size and color for readers to notice. The book provides ample opportunities for readers to make their own shapes with activities included within the narrative (using an empty cereal box to make a parallelogram, for example). The work concludes with a brief identification quiz and a short glossary. Although the topic may be difficult for little readers, Adler offers kids insight to the complexity of polygons. VERDICT An unintimidating look at math and shapes, and a fine addition to nonfiction collections.—Hilary Tufo, Columbus Metropolitan Library-Reynoldsburg