I picked up this book primarily for my son, who is currently navigating the labyrinthine world of school math. He's the kind of kid who needs a 'why' before he dives into the 'how,' and I thought this book might offer some insights into the practical applications of math. Little did I know that this book would turn out to be a captivating journey for both of us.<br><br>Engaging and Addictive<br>The first thing that struck me about this book was how engrossing it was. I found myself as glued to its pages as I was when reading science fiction classics like Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" series. The author has a knack for making complex mathematical concepts not just understandable but downright fascinating.<br><br>Practical Advice<br>The book is not just theoretical; it offers actionable advice for parents. It addresses the often monotonous and rote memorization part of math education and provides strategies to make the learning process more engaging and meaningful.<br><br>Some Takeaways<br>1. Math as Brain Exercise: The book likens doing math to exercising one's "brain muscle," a concept that resonated with my son. He enjoys physical exercises like pull-ups because he believes they make him better at his other interests like swimming and ninja activities. The book successfully draws a parallel here, making math more relatable for kids.<br>2. Math as Accumulated Wisdom: The book underscores the idea that math is not just numbers and formulas; it's the accumulated knowledge passed down through generations of humans. Learning math is akin to standing on the shoulders of giants, benefiting from the discoveries and insights of those who came before us. This perspective adds a layer of profundity and significance to the subject, making it more appealing to learners.<br>3. The Changing Landscape of Math: The book points out that the algorithmic or "vertical math" that was the focus when I was in school is not as relevant today. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying principles rather than just memorizing formulas.<br>4. Flexibility and Rigidity in Math: One of the most enlightening sections of the book discusses how math is both flexible and rigid. Kids are not born with the conventional wisdom of 1+1 always equaling 2 for good reason. Because in the real world in different contexts 1+1 do not equal to 2. It is important to encourage kids to think freely and understand why it equals 2 in the context of a math classroom.<br><br>This book is a treasure trove of wisdom not just for children but also for adults. It has changed the way I look at math and given me valuable tools to help my son on his mathematical journey. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or anyone interested in understanding the real-world applications of math, this book is a must-read.