THE METRIC SYSTEM

Let’s learn about base-10 measurement! (It’s more exciting than you may think.)

Meet Jennifer and Robert, or, as they’re sometimes called, Jenny and Bob. Regardless of what you call them, they’re the same people, just as using English measurements or metric measurements doesn’t change the size of an object. So begins this picture book that explains how and why a few countries use one standard of measurement and many others use an alternative. Readers familiar with Adler and Miller’s work will feel at home with this title as well. The book features short paragraphs to explain the history and the mathematics while encouraging readers to consider objects in the book and around the home as subjects to measure. The book is perfect for the mathematically minded reader, and educators and caregivers will also find this useful as a teaching tool. Savvy caregivers can use this as a way to introduce educational moments into common household tasks and chores, such as cooking or grocery shopping. Regardless of use, the book will be a welcome and necessary addition to many a bookshelf. The only question the book doesn’t answer is why the United States holds out against using a system that is manifestly easier and in near universal use elsewhere. Jenny is depicted with brown skin and straight black hair; Bob is depicted with white skin and red hair.

Add this to your nonfiction list.