A Remainder of One : Book Review

"A Remainder of One" by Elinor J. Pinczes is a delightful and educational children's book that introduces the concept of remainders in a fun and approachable way. This charming story follows a lively group of twelve ants as they attempt to divide themselves into equal teams, only to discover that they always end up with one ant left over. With the guidance of their wise and clever queen, the ants embark on a journey of problem-solving and creativity to find a solution.

What sets "A Remainder of One" apart is its ability to seamlessly incorporate math concepts into the narrative. Pinczes skillfully weaves division, remainders, and problem-solving into the storyline, capturing the attention of young readers and making math both enjoyable and accessible. The lively rhyming text and vibrant illustrations by Bonnie MacKain add an extra layer of appeal to the book, creating an engaging visual experience that enhances the storytelling.

As an educational tool, "A Remainder of One" goes above and beyond by including a "Math Notes" section at the end of the book. This section provides further explanations and examples related to the math concepts covered in the story, serving as a valuable resource for parents and teachers to deepen children's understanding and spark meaningful conversations about math.

Overall, "A Remainder of One" is an exceptional book for introducing young readers to the concept of remainders and division. Its captivating storyline, enchanting illustrations, and educational value make it a valuable addition to any children's library. The book not only entertains but also empowers children to think logically and creatively when faced with problem-solving situations. "A Remainder of One" is a must-have for parents and educators seeking to make math engaging and accessible for young minds.

The book "A Remainder of One" by Elinor J. Pinczes has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Some praised the book, commending its educational value and engaging narrative style. They appreciated how the author made the concept of remainders relatable and enjoyable for children, using rhymes and repetitive phrases to reinforce the mathematical ideas being taught. The colorful illustrations also added to the overall appeal of the book. These positive reviews highlighted the book's effectiveness as an educational tool that makes math enjoyable for young readers.

However, there were also reviewers who expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that the story lacked depth and complexity, making it too simplistic for older children. The characters and plot were seen as predictable and lacking substance. Some readers also found the use of rhymes and repetition monotonous after a while, which diminished their enjoyment of the book. These critical reviews emphasized the need for more engaging storytelling and a higher level of challenge in terms of the mathematical concepts presented.

Some reviewers discussed the appropriateness of "A Remainder of One" for different age groups. Although the book generally resonated well with younger readers, there were concerns about its suitability for very young children due to the complex mathematical concepts involved. It was suggested that the book might be better suited for older elementary school students who already possess a basic understanding of division and remainders.

In summary, the reviews for "A Remainder of One" indicate that it serves as an effective educational tool for introducing the concept of remainders to young readers. While some readers found it engaging and enjoyable, others felt that it lacked depth and complexity. The book may be most appropriate for older elementary school students rather than very young children.