Given the growing list of titles like this that combine fiction and non-fiction, it’s time to coin a new term to describe such a book. Perhaps “info-fiction” might be appropriate.

The “info” part of this book is mathematics, or more precisely, how math is relevant in our daily lives. With the help of energetic, cartoonlike spot art, diagrams, and photographs, authors Cora Lee and Gillian O’Reilly explain how music, art, nature, computers, sports, and movies all involve math. Their explanations are done through sidebars and the enthusiastic voices of Jeremy, the narrator, and his friend Sam.

Sam is a “mathnik,” a person who sees math everywhere and in everything. Through demonstrations and conversations with fellow schoolmates, Sam sets out to prove the error of the director of education’s decision to abolish math from the curriculum. Sam’s arguments are extremely convincing as he relates math to the interests of young teens, such as basket, mp3 players, computer programming, movie animation, and BMX bikes.

Explanations of mathematical concepts are for the most part clear and supported by examples, although the content is more appropriate for readers older than the suggested age group. The book’s appeal is enhanced by its design, which makes good use of colour and patterned backgrounds to offset sidebars and chapters. Teachers will no doubt find that the content as well as the index and extensive glossary are a useful resource to help make math an exciting experience for their students.