If You Made a Million

Combining the practical lessons of learning about money with the cheerful, fun, often fantastical illustrations of Steven Kellogg, IF YOU MADE A MILLION is a wonderful book for the primary-grade student. Bruce Johnson's husky voice clearly expresses pleasure, and even amazement, at the different configurations and combinations of money, with children's voices reading the job signs. Johnson paces himself well, allowing the reader time to look at the different possibilities. A great book to help children organize the progression of money, and begin to understand the concepts of large amounts of money and large numbers. W.L.S. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

April 30, 1989
Sophisticated mathematical and financial concepts are difficult to teach, yet most children are fascinated by money. In a savvy follow-up to How Much Is a Million? Schwartz and Kellogg have succeeded in presenting money in terms that correspond to how children think. In a funny, accessible way, the team explores relationships between accomplishing tasks and earning payment, saving and spending, and other concepts including interest, the relative value of various denominations, writing checks and even financing a mortgage. Kellogg's typically humorous ink and watercolor drawings will compound reader interest while wittily reinforcing and expanding ideas. An author's note recaps the facts, including a history of money and banking, checks, loans, income tax, and the volume of money vs. its value. Splendid fare. Ages 6-10.