A Joyful Journey into Numbers: A Comprehensive Review of I’m Trying to Love Math by Bethany Barton

📖 Introduction: Why Math Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

Math. For many, that single word conjures up memories of sweaty palms during timed tests, confusing equations, and the dreaded question: “When will I ever use this in real life?” But what if math could be fun? What if it could be loved?

Bethany Barton’s I’m Trying to Love Math is a delightful, engaging, and surprisingly profound picture book that dismantles math anxiety with humor, vibrant illustrations, and a refreshing perspective. Whether you’re a parent looking to ease your child’s math fears, a teacher searching for a classroom gem, or an adult who still cringes at the thought of fractions, this book offers a warm, welcoming embrace to the world of numbers.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore why Barton’s work stands out, how it transforms math dread into curiosity, and why it deserves a spot on your bookshelf.

📚 Plot Summary: A Reluctant Love Affair with Numbers

I’m Trying to Love Math follows an unnamed narrator (presumably a child) who starts with a confession: “I’m trying to love math, but it’s hard.” What unfolds is a humorous, interactive journey where the reader is encouraged to see math not as a rigid set of rules but as a playful, essential part of everyday life.

Barton cleverly uses conversational text and whimsical illustrations to demonstrate math in unexpected places—baking cookies, playing music, even in nature’s patterns. The book doesn’t dive deep into complex equations but instead focuses on shifting the reader’s mindset. It reassures them that math isn’t just about memorizing formulas—it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and discovery.

Without spoiling the fun, the book’s conclusion is both heartwarming and empowering, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for numbers.

🎨 Character & Narrative Style: Breaking the Fourth Wall with Charm

Unlike traditional children’s books with a defined protagonist, I’m Trying to Love Math features a conversational, almost conspiratorial tone where the narrator speaks directly to the reader. This “breaking the fourth wall” technique makes the experience feel personal, as if Barton is sitting beside you, gently guiding you through your math hesitations.

The illustrations are a standout—bold, colorful, and packed with humor. From a panicked pie chart sweating under pressure to a pizza slice explaining fractions with cheesy charm, the visuals make abstract concepts tangible and fun.

Barton’s writing is simple yet impactful, avoiding jargon while still conveying deep ideas. The book’s interactive elements (like prompts to high-five the page or imagine math in space) keep young readers engaged, making it a fantastic read-aloud choice.

✨ Themes & Deeper Meaning: More Than Just Numbers

At its core, I’m Trying to Love Math is about mindset shifts. It tackles:

  • Math Anxiety: Many kids (and adults!) freeze at the sight of numbers. Barton normalizes this fear while offering a gentle nudge toward curiosity.
  • Real-World Relevance: By showing math in cooking, music, and art, the book answers the age-old question: “Why do I need to learn this?”
  • Growth Mindset: The title itself—I’m Trying—emphasizes effort over perfection, a crucial lesson for learners of all ages.

Unlike dry textbooks, this book frames math as a creative, dynamic tool rather than a rigid set of rules. It’s a subtle but powerful message that can reshape how children approach learning.

❤️ Personal Reading Experience: From Skepticism to Smiles

As someone who once hid behind a textbook to avoid being called on in algebra class, I approached this book with cautious optimism. Could a children’s book really change my perception of math?

Surprisingly, yes.

Barton’s playful approach disarms resistance. The humor (like a calculator pleading “Don’t forget about me!”) made me laugh, while the real-world examples (like symmetry in butterflies) made math feel beautiful. By the end, I found myself nodding along—maybe math isn’t the villain I’d made it out to be.

Parents and teachers will appreciate how seamlessly the book sparks conversations. After reading, my niece asked, “Wait, is math really in everything?”—a question that led to a fun afternoon of measuring ingredients for cookies. Mission accomplished, Barton.

📖 Comparison to Other Books in the Genre

Compared to other math-themed children’s books, I’m Trying to Love Math stands out for its humor and accessibility.

  • Vs. Math Curse (Jon Scieszka): Both books tackle math anxiety, but Barton’s is more interactive and visually driven, ideal for younger readers.
  • Vs. The Number Devil (Hans Magnus Enzensberger): While The Number Devil dives deeper into concepts, Barton’s book is more approachable for early learners.
  • Vs. Bedtime Math series: Barton’s book is less about practice problems and more about shifting attitudes—making them great companions.

✅ Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Humor & Heart: The illustrations and tone make math feel friendly, not intimidating.
  • Interactive Elements: Encourages physical engagement (high-fives, imagining scenarios).
  • Broad Appeal: Useful for kids, parents, and educators alike.

Weaknesses (Minor!):

  • Not a Deep Dive: If you’re looking for a math workbook, this isn’t it. It’s a mindset book first.
  • Age Range: Best for ages 4-8; older kids might need more advanced material.

🎯 Target Audience: Who Will Love This Book?

  • Kids Ages 4-8: Perfect for early learners developing their math attitudes.
  • Parents & Educators: A great tool to ease math anxiety in a fun, non-pressured way.
  • Math-Anxious Adults: Yes, even you might find it healing!

💬 Memorable Quotes & Passages

A few gems that capture the book’s spirit:

“Math is like a superpower. It helps us understand the world.”

“I used to think math was only numbers… but it’s also shapes, patterns, and even pizza!”

🌍 Cultural & Historical Context

Math anxiety is a well-documented phenomenon, with studies showing it affects nearly 50% of students. Books like Barton’s are part of a growing movement to reframe STEM education as engaging and inclusive, particularly for girls and underrepresented groups. By presenting math as playful and creative, Barton aligns with modern pedagogical shifts toward experiential, joy-based learning.

🔗 Get the Book

Ready to give math a second chance? Grab your copy here:
🔗 Amazon

🎉 Final Thoughts: A Book That Changes Minds

I’m Trying to Love Math isn’t just a children’s book—it’s a tiny revolution against math dread. With its humor, heart, and clever approach, Bethany Barton turns numbers into friends rather than foes. Whether you’re buying it for a reluctant learner or your inner child, this book is a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to fall in love with something we once feared.

Discussion Question: What’s one math concept you wish had been taught to you in a fun way as a kid? Share in the comments!

Happy reading (and math-ing)! 🧮📚

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