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VOYA
Factual information about the monetary system is presented in a conversational narrative that clearly undercuts the significance of the material. The historical background about U.S. currency is accurately detailed with pictures of each of the bills and explanations of all of the symbols. Bank accounts, earnings and risk, social security numbers, and money math are highlighted in simple text that is appropriate for upper elementary readers and middle school students. Stocks and bonds and mutual funds are clearly defined, with an emphasis on saving money and growing diverse investments. Complex ideas are simplified into precise yet childish dialogue. Money games, additional resources, and a subject index are included as well as a selection of charts and graphs. The author's efforts to personalize the text, however, fall short of providing a solid reference tool. Using terms like "on the dole," "tightwad," or "wad of dough" seems grossly inappropriate. "Calculators are friendly" is not the most serious introduction to the tool, although the author describes games to play with it. Although one might applaud the breadth of information that is assembled here, this title cannot be recommended for young adult collection shelves. VOYA CODES: 2Q 2P M J (Better editing or work by the author might have warranted a 3Q; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 2004, Barron's, 180p.; Glossary. Index. Illus. Charts. Biblio. Further Reading., Trade pb. Ages 11 to 15.—Nancy Zachary
Overview
- How and where is it printed?
- What do all those long numbers and special letters on currency mean?
- How are the newly designed bills improvements over the old ones?
- How can banks afford to pay interest?
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