"Equal Shmequal," written by Virginia Kroll and illustrated by Philomena O'Neill, is a children's
picture book published
in 2005 as part of the Charlesbridge Math Adventures series. The story revolves around a group of forest
animals, led by
Mouse, who want to play a game of tug-of-war. However, they face the challenge of forming equal teams.
Synopsis
The narrative begins with Mouse suggesting a game of tug-of-war to Bear. As various animals join in, it
becomes clear
that simply having an equal number of players does not ensure fairness. Mouse proposes using a seesaw to
balance the
teams based on their weights, leading to a mathematical exploration of equality and fairness. The story
encourages young
readers to think critically about what it means to be "equal" and "fair," prompting discussions about
weight comparison
and problem-solving strategies.
Educational Value
"Equal Shmequal" is particularly effective as an educational tool for introducing concepts of mass,
measurement, and
equality to children aged 6 and older. The book engages readers by incorporating math into a fun and
relatable story,
making it an excellent resource for teaching mathematical vocabulary and concepts in a classroom
setting. It also
includes opportunities for hands-on activities, such as using weighing scales to explore the idea of
equal weights in
practical scenarios.
Illustrations and Themes
The illustrations in "Equal Shmequal" are vibrant and engaging, capturing the personalities of the
animal characters.
The book not only focuses on mathematical concepts but also features a strong female protagonist in
Mouse, who devises a
solution to the problem, which is a positive representation in children's literature.
Overall, "Equal Shmequal" is recommended for educators and parents looking to introduce young children
to foundational
mathematical concepts through storytelling and interactive learning.
Author: Virginia Kroll
Virginia is a prolific children's author known for her engaging and educational stories. With over
sixty published
books and numerous magazine articles since 1992, she has made significant contributions to children's
literature. Her
works often focus on themes of nature, friendship, and learning, making complex concepts accessible to
young readers.
Kroll resides in Buffalo, New York, where she continues to write and inspire children through her
storytelling. Notable
titles include "Hands!" and "Equal Shmequal," which incorporate educational elements seamlessly into
their narratives.
Book Details:
- Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
- Format: Paperback
- Print length: 32 pages
- Dimensions: 21.64 x 0.41 x 24.13 cm
- Reading age: 6-8 years old
- Publication date: 5 July 2005
- ISBN: 978-1570918926
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