Ella Earns Her Own Money

November 1, 2013

K-Gr 2-This series teaches money basics by putting diverse characters into familiar financial situations. For example, in Ella, Ella wants to earn money to purchase a $20 soccer ball. Her mom gives her $2 for allowance, of which she saves 75 cents, shares 25 cents, and puts $1 in her spend jar. Ella then does extra chores, helps neighbors, sells an old game, and finally gets the last amount from grandma after helping her clean the garage. The way the kids earn money, sell items, and interact with parents and other adults is realistic and encouraging. Some of the financials are simplified: there is never any tax to consider, and when selling candy for a camping trip, the cost of the product is not discussed-the entire sale is treated as profit. The illustrations are bold and bright and support the texts. The books all end with an appealing activity. Overall, this series would be valuable at home and at school to prompt discussions about money management.

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