With the beginning of a new chapter in the life of 2e News, formerly the 2e: Twice-Exceptional Newsletter, it might be a good idea to remind readers of the focus of this column. I search for quality literature with appropriate challenge and content that addresses issues of 2e students. Most, but not all, of the books that will be reviewed here will address various issues of twice-exceptionality. I am convinced that when 2e students read about characters who share the same learning and social-emotional issues, they become better equipped to deal with those issues. This is an informal use of bibliotherapy. A description of this approach and a summary of my “philosophy” on reading can be found in Bob Seney on Books (2017), a collection of reviews from the 2e Newsletter. It is available from Glen Ellyn Media.
Regular readers of this column will already know of my penchant for picture books. This genre has grown in sophistication, in complex illustrations, in art forms, in content, and in themes. Picture books are no longer just for kids. I have found that the format of picture books is great for 2e learners. The combination and interaction of text and illustrations provide a formula that makes it easier for our learners to handle text and content. The positive use of picture books with dyslexic readers is well documented. So readers, you can expect to see current picture books reviewed here from time to time as well.
The focus for this column is Morgan and the Forty Thieves: A Magic Math Adventure by Addie Abacus (Patricia Tobin) with illustrations by Elisabeth Alba (2018, Phantom Hill Press). It is especially difficult to find books for younger gifted and advanced readers. This delightful adventure book fits that bill perfectly. In addition, it provides problem solving, advanced math problems, and more. Most of the problems are presented visually through Alba’s illustrations.
The author notes her concern on nurturing STEM, especially for girls, and Morgan, the protagonist, is a delightful ambassador for this purpose. A note here: my emphasis is more on STREAM, which adds the important elements of Reading and Art. However, I am constantly searching for literature that supports and supplements STEM to recommend to teachers and parents.
The plot of this delightful novel is intriguing and fast moving. Set in 1899, we find that Morgan’s father has gone missing on a scientific expedition to the Galapagos, and she and her mother’s circumstances have drastically changed, forcing them to move to the estate of Allen Barber — or Grandpa Allen, as he prefers to be called. Morgan finds a new friend in Rusty, Grandpa Allen’s grandson, whose father has also gone missing on the same expedition. There are mysteries at the Barber Mansion These mysteries lead Morgan and Rusty into an exciting adventure that presents problems which must be solved in order for them to advance. There is also an exciting and unusual element added that provides an interesting cultural observation on Native American myths. This book is truly multi-faceted, and just downright fun to read!
What makes this book even more important is that it is written as challenging reading for younger readers, a hard-to-find commodity. The layout of the book, featuring chapters beginning with a significant quote, illustrations depicting the problem challenges; and the final section, Medallion Matters, make for a fun and interesting read. Teachers, this would make a great read-aloud, pausing to solve the problems as they are presented. I am truly looking forward to the next installment in what I think will become an important series.
The relatively short chapters (the longer ones are broken up into sections), the fast-moving plot, and an advanced vocabulary provide a challenge that will delight most advanced and gifted readers without deterring more reluctant readers. In addition, the use of math and problem solving, often a strength of our 2e learners, provide an addition motivational element. I highly recommend this one. Readers, I enjoy hearing from you. Often, it is a parent or teacher who leads me to another great title.
Happy Reading!
