Pythagoras and the Ratios: A Math Adventure by Julie Ellis

Ellis, Julie Pythagoras and the Ratios: A Math Adventure illustrated by Phyllis Hornung Peacock 31 pg. Charlesbridge, 2010. NON-FICTION/PICTURE BOOK. $7.95. Pythagoras is a curious boy who forgets to do his chores because he is too busy solving math problems. His latest puzzle is that of his cousins' musical instruments. Using his mathematical logic, Pythagoras figures out how to fix the pipes and lyres' out-of-tune sounds, just in time for the big town concert. Although this book is not completely historically accurate, it does a good job at explaining the mathematical ratios that Pythagoras came up with. I think that kids would really be able to understand the ratio concept because the story line makes it more memorable and concrete. Sometimes the writing seemed a little bit forced and too "punny", but I think that kids would enjoy it as it helps solidify this mathematical concept in their mind. I especially think that non-math lovers (like myself) would appreciate this book for making math more applicable and real. EL-ADVISABLE. Whitney, Library-Teacher.