The Math Wiz

by Betsy Duffey, Janet Wilson (Illustrator)

Does "Math Wiz" have to equal "Sports Dud"?

Marty Malone thinks no problem is too complicated for him. Then he starts third grade--and learns that being a math wiz won't stop him from getting picked last in gym class. Kids like tom Ballan are so much better at sports that Marty will never be able to catch up. Trying harder doesn't work. Trying to get out of gym doesn't work. But what if Marty makes a friend in class? And what if that friend is a math wiz, too?

Genres: Childrens, Mathematics, Realistic Fiction

Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

About the author

Betsy Duffey grew up with a love of reading and writing. Her earliest experience in writing came from reading manuscripts by her mother author and Newbery winner, Betsy Byars. She began writing in 1990 and has published over twenty children’s books, including a number of popular series. Her books have been Junior Library Guild selections, Crown Award nominees, and have been nominated for state awards in over twenty states.
Her latest books are devotional books for adults. She began writing short meditations for friends who were challenged in different ways. More Peace started for a friend undergoing chemotherapy. More Hope for a young friend dealing with infertility. The series continues to grow.
Betsy splits her time between Atlanta and the Georgia mountains. When she is not writing you can probably find her outside hiking in the woods or on the porch in a rocking chair with a good book.

Reviews

[Невена Pascaleva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in the New York subway and it just fit in. Anyone who ever feels out of place the way I did over there will find themselves in Marty's story. Let alone memories of math classes and GYM classes...ohhh....thank you, Betsy Duffey, for the love.

[Muhammad Noman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its a really good book.Marty Malone is not good in P.E or gym.But,he is good in Math the question that he can't answer is Math Wiz+P.E.=Misery.Marty try to put bandage on his to escape the gym. Also in P.E. he always get pick at last. Even,he was a captain nobody wants to be in his team.for the solution for his question was to add a friend and he did and the story end.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple, fun story with a good lesson. Everyone is different and people are good at some things and bad at others and that is ok.

[Joy Becker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this one with Andrew, and we both liked it! Quick read with some good talking points regarding inclusive friendships, looking out for others, and being yourself.

[Allison Turkish · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Not bad but not great. I guess I wish there was more substance to the story.
Overuse of the word nerd seems outdated.

I'm glad the main character ended up with a friend at the end.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for any kid who has ever felt out of place - and what kid hasn't! I like the way this kid problem solves.

[Amadou]

I think it was a good book.

[Summer · Rating 3 out of 5]

A humorous story at most.

[Ongyonglin]

goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Problem solving to which we can all relate. It's nice for someone to notice and offer help along the way.