Topic: Odd, Even
Interest Level: Grades 1-3
Ruby and her two best friends are excited about going to Rainforest Fun Park – until they discover that the rides they want to go on have seats for two, not three. Someone will have to ride alone. Or will they?
Second graders loved this story and were able to fully comprehend the meaning of odd and even. The plot was engaging for students. Overall, this is a great story to start a discussion of even and odd numbers.
Ruby Makes It Even is a perfect mathematical story to introduce young children to the concept of odd and even numbers. Connecting mathematical concepts with emotions is quite effective here. Illustrations by MH Pilz are helpful in illustrating odd and even numbers very clearly. Diversity of characters in the story is abundant. Particularly, we are pleased to see a female ethnic leading character. All in all, an engaging mathematical story with a storyline that children can easily relate to.
