Marvelossimo, the Mathematical Magician who guided readers through the wild terrain of complex numbers in "How Much Is a Million?," now explains for children the nuts and bolts--as well as the mystery and wonder--of earning money. Full color.

Reviews

Gr 2-4-- Earning, spending, saving and borrowing money are the subjects explored in this sequel to How Much is a Million? (Lothrop, 1985) . Aided by Ancona's clear photographs of various denominations of money, Schwartz explains economic concepts verbally, while Kellogg fancifully and humorously illustrates them. ``Cheerful and Willing'' children perform varied chores for Marvelosissimo the Mathematical Magician, who suggests options for using their earnings. As the tasks become more difficult (babysitting an obstreperous ogre, for example) pay increases and options widen. The usual Kellogg profusion of smiling cats, earnest dogs, prancing ponies, and a unicorn fill and spill over the pages. Ideal for classroom use by creative teachers, and attractive enough to keep the interest of even non-mathematically inclined readers, this is sure to be popular. These concepts are more complex than those in Schwartz' previous book, however, and will be best suited to slightly older readers. This is one investment that's sure to pay interest in reader dividends. --Louise L. Sherman, Anna C. Scott School, Leonia, NJ

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. (May)

"From simple penny antics to the complicated concept of how a check clears a bank, the book makes money matters matter to readers."-- "School Library Journal" "Another winner, as original as the first book."-- "Horn Book"