X Marks the Spot!

Math Matters®

by Lucille Recht Penner

After Jake and Leo reluctantly move into their grandfather's old house, they receive a mysterious postcard about treasure maps in the attic. Following the clues on the maps, Jake and Leo discover their new neighborhood and find that the real treasure is right in their own backyard!

36 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

Lucille Recht Penner is the author of many nonfiction books for kids, including Dinosaur Babies and Monster Bugs in Random House’s Step into Reading program. She lives in Tucson, AZ.

Reviews

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to get this book because it said that it was a "Math Matters" that focuses on coordinate graphs. I thought the story did a good job of weaving the coordinate graph concept through the story. I anticipated more direct interaction with them, but parents/teachers could emphasize that themselves. The back page has suggestions for activities.

[Dolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun book about a treasure hunt. As a family moves into their grandfather's home, two brothers discover a series of treasure maps that he left behind for them. These maps help the young boys explore the town and eventually lead them to a treasure that any child would love. The story incorporates a math lesson of reading coordinate graph charts; it's a fun way to learn this math concept.

It's a fun story with colorful illustrations and a narrative that is simple enough for beginning readers. We enjoyed reading this story together.

[Julian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like making maps.

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upon moving to their grandfather's house, two boys discover a treasure map in the attic and must learn how to use it in order to find their surprise.