Wendy Lichtman writes personal essays for the Washington Post, New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and Good Housekeeping, among other national publications. She holds a degree in mathematics and has tutored public-school students in algebra for the past several years. When she decided to write about a teen realizing that some questions have more than one right answer, algebra, with its unknowns and variables, seemed a perfect metaphor. Wendy Lichtman lives in Berkeley, California. (from the publisher's website)"
As a math teacher, I found "Do the Math: Secrets, Lies, and Algebra" by Wendy Lichtman to be a fantastic addition to any classroom library. This book not only entertains but also educates in a fun and engaging way. The author skillfully incorporates mathematical concepts into the storyline, making them accessible and relatable to young readers. Through Tess's adventures, students can see the practical applications of math in everyday life, and the challenges she faces resonate with the struggles many students encounter when learning math. Additionally, the book emphasizes problem-solving skills and critical thinking, which are essential in mathematics education. Overall, "Do the Math" is a wonderful tool for sparking students' interest in math and showing them that it can be both enjoyable and relevant.