Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-Algebra Who's Boss (McKellar Math)

The book covers core pre-algebra topics like positive and negative numbers, absolute value, variables, and solving equations. But what really sets it apart is the tone: it’s like having a big sister or a cool teacher walk you through the stuff that usually makes your brain hurt. She uses examples from shopping, friendships, and crushes to make math click in a way that feels both personal and empowering. Visually, the book includes fun fonts, doodles, and highlighted tips, which help break down tough concepts without overwhelming the reader. It also includes stories and testimonials from girls who have struggled with math but overcame their fears—an inspiring touch for those who might think they’re "just not a math person." While the tone is clearly geared toward a younger female audience, anyone who appreciates an engaging and non-intimidating approach to math could benefit from it. Teachers and parents may also find it a valuable resource to support students.

This math book for girls— is filled with girl talk——- and some math. This book is useful and helpful - whether new math or old math

Once my daughter, who is now 11, and I finally gave the books, Math Doesn't Suck and Kiss My Math, a chance we were very impressed. My daughter has always taken responsibility for her own education, so if she chooses to use a particular book often, I take notice. She likes that, while so many explanations may be long, they are never presented in a dry manner. The first reason I had not mentioned them to her earlier was because I felt that she was not a "girly girl" and wouldn't like the style of the books, but it turns out that a person need not be "girly" at all. I was also surprised that she was able to identify, and even enjoy, the stories peppered throughout the books that focus on mainstream school topics, even though she is home educated. We had originally borrowed them from the library, but quickly realized that these were keepers and purchased them. They work well for the purposes of learning a concept the first time, and as a reference book. I have not noticed my sons giving these books any attention, so I am not yet sure if they would have much value to boys, but they seem like they would be great for most girls, whether they are "girly" or not.

As a parent finding the common core math books very frustrating (as well as their online counterparts), I was looking for some additional help in learning the concepts myself in order to help my 8th grade son. Other than all the girly, wishy-washy advice aimed at girls, the easy explanations Danica devised worked well. I originally borrowed the book from the library and when I saw the easy explanation, I went ahead and ordered this and one of her other books. I ordered them used so I think I got both books for less than $10, shipping included. Well worth the price.

My daughter and I have learned to embrace math after using Danica McKellar's books! I both "Math Doesn't Suck" and "Kiss My Math" when my daughter was in 6th grade. I noticed that she was struggling and not grasping math concepts or rules, which were also difficult to me at her age. Although her dad is a math wiz, I am the main homework parent and knew we needed something we could both learn from: easy for her to read and follow on her own and for me to refresh and help her. I read many reviews of math help books and decided on these. Danica has a fun and amazing approach to math which reinforces math steps, rules, and short cuts. In addition to this she incorporates inspiring success stories of professional, everyday women in math, science, and unique careers; even those that might not seem math oriented (i.e. fashion world). It is great for middle schoolers (girls and boys - though the boys might not like the curly-ques!), moms, and dads.

I really truly wish this had been around when I was in High School, Middle School...ANY school! I bought this book to help me explain math to my 10/11 year old during home school math. The original intent was to let them read it to get a different perspective from how I was teaching it (so that they could discover what worked best for them). Instead I have been using it all the way for myself to relearn things I had forgotten and to teach new curriculum. She explains things in a much easier method than what I had learned and she makes it relatable. I recommend it for ANYONE who struggles with math.

My daughter now has all of the books in this series, and loves reading them, just for fun! Math is no longer a chore, and check is eager to learn. One year ago, I had a 10-year-old daughter who was frustrated to tears with mathematics, no matter how we tried to demonstrate and explain the reasoning behind it. Her school math grade was miserable, and she felt miserable, too. I remembered hearing about Danica's books on NPR, and had previewed them on Amazon.com. It was time to bring out the big guns. Within one day of receiving the first book, our daughter was engaged and excited about learning, and DEMANDED more books.Today, one year later, school work is tear-free, and math is her #1 subject with a straight A record. Danica has a mysterious way of explaining things to girls that just makes sense and sticks with them. There is something magical in these pages. We absolutely recommend all of Danica McKellar's books!

This made math fun! I had previously read some of the reviews and was a little worried about some of the people who said that Ms. McKellar made math slightly sexual. WHAT! I don't get it at all. This and the next book were the most innocent books around and the most helpful! It was very helpful where I think my daughter will need it. She hasn't read the books yet but I did and I love them! If you as an adult need help understanding math for yourself or so you can help your child this is your answer. I never understood algebra, I always struggled. The only reason I made it through and passed was because I had a wonderful wonderful teacher. I was blessed. My daughter is not and so here we are. I say thank you so much to Ms. McKellar for making math both easy and fun!

Brilliant book

My husband and I purchased the set for our grandson and grand daughter. We wanted to help them in their middle school maths. The books are fantastic and the maths are very well explained. We love them.

I was terrified of math. Everything about it scared me. I cried everytime I tried it. But I found these amazing books by Danica, and now I am doing algebra! In my opinion, these are THE books to get if you need help with math. They are not like text books... They are like a fun novel that also teaches math! It is only for girls, and the chapters are about actually FUN things. If you trouble with math, then this is the way to go.

All four books are AWESOME!

My daughter is not particularly strong in math, however, this book describes it in a way she was able to understand, giving her the basics and confidence she needs.