The Math Mechanic Series
Math:  Grades K - 12
Publisher:  The Math Mechanic
For more information or to order: www.themathmechanic.com

The Math Mechanic Series takes the guesswork out of problem solving!  Written by math tutors, the series currently includes the following titles: Introduction to Numbers, Counting, Adding & Subtracting, Time and Money, Addition Edition for Whole Numbers (covers 1 - 7 digit numbers), Subtraction Edition for Whole Numbers (covers 1 - 3 digit numbers), Fractions & Mixed Numbers Edition and Linear Equations for Algebra.  Each book is a combination tutorial, workbook and reference manual with clearly written step-by-step instructions. 

Each book in The Math Mechanic Series does a wonderful job of explaining problem solving in a way that anyone can understand.  I really like how they use color to illustrate each step to solving the given problem.  Another plus in the Addition and Subtraction editions are the "Instructional Fill-ins" where students must write out the steps to solving problems, which helps impress the steps in their memory.  All books include practice problems and answer keys, although some do not have as many practice problems as I would like.  This series is not a complete curriculum, and most of the time, it doesn't discuss the "why" of following certain procedures when problem solving. For instance, there is no discussion of place value when teaching borrowing or carrying.  Rather, emphasis is on the process or "mechanics" of solving each type of problem, building confidence and speed.  Math is built upon absolutes, once a student memorizes the steps to solve a particular type of problem, they'll be able to solve that same kind of problem no matter how it's presented because the laws of mathematics don't change. 

If you have a student who has learned the concepts of place value, addition, fractions, etc., but struggles when it comes time to actually work out the problems, the The Math Mechanic Series may be just the tool you need to get them "over the hump".  These affordable books make a great resource for teachers and students to have on hand as a supplement to curriculum.  Fractions are one of my weaknesses, and I have already found myself pulling the Fractions & Mixed Numbers Edition off my shelf to give to my son.  It's like having a tutor standing by ready to come to my rescue!  I appreciate the clarification and reinforcement The Math Mechanic Series provides and I think you will too!

Making the Grade: A+
Cost: $12.95 - $15.50 depending on the title
Value for Your Homeschool Dollar: 10
Review provided by Cindy Prechtel, Editor