Math Mind: The Simple Path to Loving Math

by Shalinee Sharma

Bust the math myths that are holding you and your kids back and learn the importance of numeracy with this one-of-a-kind resource for parents, educators, and policymakers

Shalinee Sharma is one of the world’s top experts on math learning, but when she was in school, she sat in the back row, unsure if she could ever master the subject. Many of us buy into the idea that some people are innately good at math and others just won’t ever succeed at it—but it’s not true, and numeracy is as important as literacy when it comes to opening doors in life.

Sharma shows how complex problem solving and puzzle solving, abstract and logical thinking, developing fluency with numbers, and cultivating persistence in math are crucial skills for success that can be taught to everyone and how math, far from being a dry, dull exercise, shares common ground with art and creativity. She also debunks the myths that prevent us from learning and enjoying math, with chapters dedicated to the three roadblocks that discourage adults and kids from learning.

With instructive line drawings throughout, Sharma explains the math instinct that all humans have from birth, and better, more intuitive ways to solve math problems that are both rigorous and accessible. For anyone who has ever thought you’re “bad at math” but wants to get good—for your children and for yourself—Math Mind contains the guidance, takeaways, and specific approaches you need to learn to love numbers.

* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF that contains select equations and other visuals from the book.

PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Education, Science, Mathematics, Self Help

288 pages, Hardcover

Published August 6, 2024

Reviews

[Greg Fournier · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised at how good this book was. I was expecting a fairly lame attempt at getting readers to like math a bit better than they did before reading, but what I actually experienced was an inspiring account of how math really is for everyone—not just for “math kids.” At times it felt a bit corny and simplistic, sort of like a Marie Kondo for math, and I could have used some deeper explanations on various subjects. But overall, “Math Mind” is a good read.

[Frank · Rating 3 out of 5]

It could have been a magazine article.

[Kaylee Schmelzer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four star book that I had three star feelings about. I was trained on all of this in my teacher prep program, so a lot of it was repetitive but framed as revolutionary. Also, I get it about the millions of students doing billions of problems on Zearn. It is good content though and worth it for teachers who want math to feel different.

[Sultan · Rating 5 out of 5]

- ” كيف أصبح شيء ضروري جدا للبشرية بعيد المنال إلى هذا الحد؟ الرياضيات ملك لنا جميعا ، لكن فقد الكثير منا ارتباطه بها “.

- الكتاب يتحدث عن مشكلة عدم تدريس الرياضيات في المدراس و من قبل المربين ، بشكل صحيح و عادل للجميع ؛ مما أدى لظهور مشكلة كره مادة الرياضيات ، وأعجبت بنظرة الكاتبة للرياضيات على أنها مادة تم تشويه صورتها لكل من رغب في تعلمها ، وأنها مادة مهمة للحياة والحضارة بشكل عام من تطورات و إنجازات علمية .

-” إن الأطفال البارعين في الرياضيات يصنعون و لا يولدون “.

- شرحت الكاتبة أفضل طريقة لتعلم الرياضيات ، بقولها ” يستطيع الجميع فهم الرياضيات و ممارستها إذا اتبعنا تدرجا من المحسوس إلى التصويري ثم إلى المجرد “ ، أي بمعنى : ” اعتماد تدرج يشمل أدوات محسوسة ، وصورا رياضية ، ومعادلات مجردة لبناء الفهم و الطلاقة “.” يكمن المعيار الحاسم لفهمك للرياضيات في قدرتك على رسم صورة تعبر عن الفكرة “.

- الكتاب مناسب لكل محب للرياضيات و لكن يشعر بالخوف من تعلمها ، و المدرسين للمادة ، وللمربين و الآباء الذين يبحثون عن كيفية تحبيب الرياضيات أطفالهم .

- آخر فصل كان فصل تلخيص لكل ما جاء في الكتاب من مواضيع بطريقة بسيطة َ مركزة .

- أختم ، كما ختمت الكاتبة ” الآن ، تابع الأمر . امنح الرياضيات فرصة أخرى . أعد إحياء فضولك . تجاوز كبرياءك ، استسلم ، وكن شجاعا . أعمل بجد لمساعدة الجميع وخصوصا الأطفال ، وايضا نفسك ، على حب تعلم الرياضيات “.

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

does offer ways to encourage enjoying math but rather repetitive. Sharma says "assumptions consciously and unconsciously shape our behaviour" (p2) She refers to Integrative complexity (two things are true even if they seem in opposition) and the myths about learning math. Examples are about requisite speed in providing correct answer, memorizing, formulas and tricks to get answers won't give you a good math foundation. First they turn math into a dull, robotic process. Instead she would have you be creative, curious, play and explore the math problem to help you understand it.
Sharma sees that there is no single way to solve a math problem. Take time to understand the steps taken to get the correct answer. Sharma says "problem-solving involves experimenting and creativity, and it can be highly individualistic" (p74). The methods to learn and love math: first know you belong, means you have the feeling like you are a member of the club who enjoy math. Secondly start with concrete, then use pictures and objects so you believe in your ability to learn math, for a picture will provide the visual-intuitive connection then take to abstract. Third make the problem easier by trying a different way to solve. Practice with purpose so becomes productive and satisfying. Develop a "passion for learning. The desire to know. And this is what I mean when I say we can all love learning math." (p236).

[Celeste · Rating 3 out of 5]

I appreciate the concept, but reminder of how many math problems their website does monthly/since being created each chapter was just over the top. I know you own the website. I get that we sort people as good, better, best at math and that needs to be reset, but this book didn’t make me believe it will happen.

[Madalene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gratifying, and reminded me why I love math. It wasn't dogmatic about what exactly should be taught, more that we need: to teach both the rote, make multiplication automatic in your memory parts *and* the curiosity driven, how could we solve this odd problem? parts. More importantly, I love the premise that all kids could be math kids, we need to make sure we are supporting them and telling them they can do it, rather than giving them an out of "not everyone is a math person". I especially liked how she covered the importance of teachers telling kids they *are* a math kid; role models existing for all; and removing the sense of scarcity, that kids will be screened out of the tougher math classes. Hoping this is read by a lot of parents and teachers.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was going to give this book 4 stars, but one of the ratings commented that it's only been out since the beginning of August, and could use the publicity. I really liked this book, and as someone who helps teach 3rd grade, this was very helpful. I think the only thing that bothered me was how many times the same idea was explained. But then again, an idea being explained many different ways is one of the main points in the book, so it's hard to fault it there.

Definitely a great book for parents, teachers, and anyone who's ever told themselves that "math just isn't my strong suit". Really appreciated the insight and has made me want to explore math more.

Highly recommend!

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

TLDR: If you've ever thought "I'm not good at math", read this book.

I'm serious when I say this book is transformative. Even though I grew up hearing that "Girls can be in STEM!", no one went so far as to say, "Every kid is a math kid." This book does that, brilliantly so. Here's the evidence that widespread math inability is not true, why it matters, and how we can do better. It's the balm that every math-anxious kid needed to hear during school. If timed math tests stressed you out, there's a good reason. Yes, it's partially a pitch for the Zearn product, but most of the book is solid information and a perspective that's sorely needed.

[Ellen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was hopeful about this book. While I agree with many things the author says, the fact that the author is the founder and CEO of Zearn (a free math learning resource) is a bit troublesome. The reader is frequently reminded of how great Zearn is as a tool for helping students love math. Sure, there is research shared, but a lot of data mentioned is gleaned from Zearn users. Is this a book to promote Zearn or shake up the population's views on math?

As someone who studied education, I also did not find this as groundbreaking or helpful as someone with less experience in education might.

[Victor Azanedo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book makes math feel less scary and way more human. Shalinee Sharma does a great job showing that you don’t have to be a “math person” to enjoy or be good at it. She focuses on changing how you think about math, replacing fear and frustration with curiosity and confidence.

What I liked most is how simple and encouraging it is. You get small tips, relatable stories, and easy exercises that help you build a better relationship with math, one step at a time. Whether you're a student, a parent, or someone who avoided math for years, this book can help you see it in a whole new way.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for teachers and parents!

Sharma guides the reader through math thought processes so that anyone can see the beauty and pleasure of math. She shows us how we have been brainwashed by the sorting system and how the system gets us to self-sort away from math.

An eye opening read whether or not you think of yourself as a “math person.” Once you’ve finished reading you’ll be able to break the cycle and maybe even love math.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think I was a math person. I would joke about how it was weird that I was good at programming in spite of being bad at math.

This book completely changed my mind. It made math make sense. I understand now why I didn't get math before. And I believe I do have a math mind after all.

I'm excited to help my own child learn to grow and love math in a way I never did.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this book for parents. We’ve all had experiences where a great math teacher changes your perspective on the subject (me included!). This book demystifies the path to learning math and unlock any child’s challenges along the way. Love this book!

[Cambria Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

A necessary and compelling read for everyone—especially for all educators, curriculum directors, school policy makers, STEM professionals, and parents of future mathematicians. Math Mind is an affirming choice for those who love math and an essential one for those who say they don’t.

[Amy Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great! Highly recommend. It had good suggestions on how to get kids interested in math. There was a lot of discussion about how anyone can be good at and love math, which was good, but I didn't need much convincing because I love math already

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heavily resonated with this book. I think it’s especially relevant in 2025 when an alarming percentage of Americans can’t read a graph. I like the mindset that there is no one right way to solve a problem.

[Graham Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's a lot to like from Sharma's book. She does a great job giving practical examples of the ideas and principles she wants teachers to include in their teaching. It's a great read for someone trying to adjust their teaching style to aid learning.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d never believed myself a math person till I read this book because I thought of improving my numeracy. This book got me thinking of re-learning math, and I found myself looking for a math book to practice arithmetic. Of course, being the CEO of Zearn, Sharma inevitably endorses Zearn to the readers.

The summary is that math isn’t all that scary, and we kept getting told that we were not cut out for it. Here we are reassured that everyone is really a math kid. Which I believe is true since now numeracy is something we should master in parallel with literacy.

[Arjun Krishnamurthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book ever. I will definitely keep this in mind for my kids. Thanks so much Shalinee, this book was interesting and very useful. I recommend everyone read this

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring book on how anyone can become a math kid and how to improve our education system. One of a kind book that has the power to change the world. An essential read for parents.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this book for parents. We’ve all had experiences where a great math teacher changes your perspective on the subject (me included!). This book demystifies the path to learning math and unlock any child’s challenges along the way. Love this book!

[Avel Deleon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Rob T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well argued and an enjoyable enough read, but it absolutely could have been edited down into a pamphlet or magazine article. Still, grateful to see more numeracy books getting press.

[Sonal Apte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written dissection of why math is feared and how to build comfort with it.

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

An insightful look into the current culture of mathematics in America. I enjoyed the author’s perspective and ability to illustrate the complex issues of math education is relatable stories.

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the central concepts in the book. Had a few practical takeaways, although I wish there were more. Included a Bills shoutout - I'm never mad about that :)

[Imaduddin Ahmed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good guidance. Best for parents of 7-9 year olds and those preparing for SATs/GMATs/GREs. Visualise maths problems, take your time, break them into more easily digestible bite size problems.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring book on how anyone can become a math kid and how to improve our education system. One of a kind book that has the power to change the world. An essential read for parents.

[David Bennatan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even though this book wasn't exactly for me I gave it a five star rating to promote it. It only came out at the beginning of the month, so not many people have reviewed it yet. I don't want to give it a lower rating because that might discourage people from acquiring a book that would be very beneficial and I will point out who should be reading Math Mind.

Without any doubt in my mind, I wholeheartedly recommend this book for parents of children in elementary school. Your kids can be successful in math and it doesn't matter that neither you nor they think of themselves as "math kids". Anyone can learn math if taught using methods that are now known to be effective. The important thing is that children who take more slowly to math in the initial stages not be sorted out and told that maybe they will have to do be happy learning other subjects. Math is so important today that everyone should become proficient. I will leave you to read the book for all the details on this idea and how it can be achieved.

When I first read the ad for this book I thought it would give me ideas on how I could learn math as a an adult. It didn't really do that but there was a lot of general encouragement. Also, I feel that my grandchildren are in pretty good hands with the math teachers at their private school. One valuable benefit for me was the discovery of Zearn, a free website for teaching math up to grade 8. I may get some use of the site for myself.

Once the first few hundred reviews for this book pour in, and I trust that will happen, I may change the rating to three stars because for me it was "just" a good book and not the life changer I was hoping for. I expect that there will be a large majority of enthusiastic five star ratings from people for whose children did have their lives changed very positively.