I find it tiresome that almost any time maths lessons in school are referred to in books for kids it is in a negative way. It seems acceptable to encourage children to think it is alright not to like maths and not to make good progress in it. I know writers are very keen to promote literacy but surely they want children to be numerate as well? Wouldn't it be a good idea to promote maths in a positive light in stories and move away these stereotypes especially since, with modern ways of teaching, many children do now like maths? - Jill, maths teacher, parent and keen reader

The representation of any teaching and learning in books for children is a very interesting area. Of course school looms large in children's books in all sorts of ways but actual lessons and particularly pleasure in learning - except in art lessons - are rarely demonstrated.

And I agree that children's writers are too often indulged by being allowed to express their own difficulties in an "Ugh! Maths!" way that makes it look like a commonplace and acceptable thing.

However, while for obvious reasons few authors would want to suggest "Ugh! Reading!" was an acceptable reaction, recent research has shown that there are surprisingly few references to reading at all in children's books, while specific aspects of the process, such as spelling tests in particular, are often invested with the author's own anxieties.

But back to maths. Yes,it would be much better if learning in maths or 'numeracy' was shown as fun and purposeful. As the teaching of the subject has changed dramatically since many of those writing were at school, what they say is often far from the mark in terms of contemporary children's experience. Being good at maths is cool, not nerdy, and the changing image of the subject needs to be translated into stories and picture books. Luckily, there are examples where this has happened - see Maths Curse by John Scieszka or The Number Devil by Hans Magnus Enzensberger.

Your comments:

Heather:
I have read this article through your facebook page about children's books and maths and what the authors write. There is a great book out at the moment called Mathamagical. You should give it a go this really is a fun book for kids and adults who want to learn sometthing whilst enjoying the read. Check it out. The Author is Colin Davies.