Help Me Learn Subtraction

July 23, 2012
In the third title in the photograph-based Help Me Learn series (following Help Me Learn Numbers 0–20 and Help Me Learn Addition), Marzollo uses puppets, figurines, and other playful items to demonstrate math equations, which are presented both numerically and in words. “6 shy dinosaurs don’t know what to do./ So 4 try to hide!/ That leaves ____ (2)./ 6 – 4 = 2.” The novel collections of finger puppets, pipe cleaner dogs, and other objects stand out against solid-colored backgrounds; on occasional spreads, a pair of bespectacled figurines give running commentary: “That’s not subtraction.” “That’s addition!” they shout on an early spread that gives a brief refresher using five birds. A detailed and eye-catching primer for preschoolers. Ages 4–7.

July 1, 2012
Marzollo and Phillips' third collaboration gives readers both the vocabulary and the vertical and horizontal number sentences that will introduce them to basic subtraction. This outing begins with an addition problem, and the sassy little wooden figures in the corner kibitz, remarking that it is not subtraction. But there is a method to the madness--Marzollo is making the connection between addition and subtraction, pointing out that they are opposites (and also adding in a little welcome comic relief). As in the previous two books (Help Me Learn Addition, 2012, etc.), sometimes-forced rhyming verses set up a math problem, the answer left blank in the rhyme but provided in parentheses within the text. "6 shy dinosaurs don't know / what to do. / So 4 try to hide! / That leaves ____ (2)." Each page provides a number sentence to go with the rhyme, mixing up the format, with some vertical, some horizontal, and some using words instead of numbers. One page is an especial challenge to readers, asking them to solve "11 - ? = 9" (and failing to provide the answer). But Phillips' photographs give the youngest readers the visuals they need to solve the problems. Some new knickknacks make it into his scenes, but they are heavy on fuzzy yellow chicks and Brushkin animals. The dash of humor in the text is a welcome addition. (Math picture book. 3-7)

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September 1, 2012
Grades K-1 Building on the work started in the first two books in the seriesHelp Me Learn Numbers 020 (2011) and Help Me Learn Addition (2012)Marzollo walks parents and young children through the basics of subtraction. This is a perfect pick for reading together as the rhyming text naturally guides children to the correct answer: 5 birds in a tree. 2 fly away. That leaves ___ (3). Phillips' bright photos complement the text in a clear and easy-to-follow way. The subtraction problem being discussed is shown using toys against a blank background that helps highlight the action. In her author's note, Marzollo talks with parents about the Common Core State Standards and the importance of teaching children about the basics of subtraction as a take-away action and how to create number sentences (10 2 = 8). This book is a great way for parents and kids to get a jump-start on learning in a fun way that will, in addition to teaching math skills, encourage shared reading.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)