Money $Ense for Kids [Paperback]

Hollis Page Harman (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 8 and up

Explains the nature of money, the different ways in which it can be represented, and how it can be saved or invested, discussing mutual funds, the stock market, banks, and inflation. Includes games and activities.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-8-Harman explains the basics of money through kid-friendly examples. Her real expertise comes through in presenting ways to "grow it"-investing in various interest-bearing ventures-and she uses some interesting analogies to explain complicated ideas about relative risk. However, the author oversimplifies other important concepts to the point of confusing readers. For example, at the very beginning of the book, she tells children that storing coins or bills in a clear jar will allow them to work "magic." Only several chapters later does she acknowledge that "The magic is making it grow" (by investing it). When illustrating how money passes from hand to hand, the author depicts a sales clerk buying something with money straight from the till. (Most shop owners would consider this embezzling.) In general, the author's informal style has too many personal examples and meandering discussions. The detailed information on various investment vehicles and the money games are new for this grade range; their inclusion almost makes up for the many gaffes elsewhere. In comparison, Neale S. Godfrey's Ultimate Kids Money Book (S & S, 1998) is far superior. It has a tighter focus, more comprehensive coverage of the real nature and function of money, and outstanding graphic design. Steven Otfinoski's The Kid's Guide to Money (Scholastic, 1996) gives better ideas for earning money. Either of those titles would be preferable to this lackadaisical effort.
Jonathan Betz-Zall, Sno-Isle Regional Library System, Edmonds, WA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"Gr 4-7-In this updated edition of her 1999 title, Harman once again presents a comprehensive guide. Part one introduces different types of U.S. currency including the symbols, material, and history of paper and coins. The author explains the complicated path that money takes from the mint to banks to the consumer. Part two focuses on how to obtain a social security number and the purpose in having one and suggests how to earn money. Part three introduces the concept of how to make it grow and suggests ways to invest in stocks and bonds. Clear, easy-to-follow exercises are provided for each chapter, e.g., dividing an allowance into three jars- "Now," "Short Term," and "Long Term." "Money Games" adds an element of fun and provides activities to be shared with an adult. A solid addition for recreational reading and for reports."


—Kathleen A. Nester, School Library Journal, November 2004 --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Paperback: 204 pages
• Publisher: Barron's Educational Series (October 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764106813
• ISBN-13: 978-0764106811
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,946,254 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

30 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I've never seen a better book about money for kids., October 21, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Money $Ense for Kids (Paperback)

I have to tell you I was so impressed with this book; I was practically quivering; I read the first 30 pages and I don't think I've ever seen anything better. I could take that book and teach with it for a year. It would serve as a base to go in just tons of directions: math, history, just everything. I was really impressed.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Author's thoughts, November 2, 2004

By 

Hollis Page Harman (Los Angeles) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Money Sense for Kids (Paperback)

Moms, Dads, grandparents and kids have all sent me emails to the book's companion website, www.kidsfinance.com. I am delighted to have refreshed the first edition; this is the 2nd ed (2004). Revisit the book for updated features of our bills and coins, plus a comparison of the three major stock exchanges. In this edition we look at three different companies: eBay, Nike and Berkshire Hathaway. I encourage you to email your thoughts and questions; I look forward to hearing from you.

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars PRACTICAL ADVICE & INFORMATIO, July 8, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Money $Ense for Kids (Paperback)

THIS EASILY UNDERSTANDABLE BOOK PROVIDES YOUNG READERS WITH ALL THEY NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS .

THE "RISK " ANALOGY TO BICYCLE RIDING IS READILY UNDERSTOOD BY ALL GENERATIONS.

THE EXPLANATION OF THE CURRENCY IS FASINATING AND ENTERTAINING