Circles: Shapes in Math, Science and Nature

Christine Linge MacDonald is a Toronto-based freelance writer.

The first volume in a new math series for 9- to 14-year-olds, Circles
packs an enormous amount of information into 80 pages. Yet it is so
cleverly organized and generously illustrated that the reader absorbs
these facts painlessly while being carried along by the author’s
enthusiasm and energetic presentation.

The book’s success results partly from the skilful unfolding of the
body of knowledge. Fundamental principles are laid out in “Amazing
Circles,” an exploration of the fascinating properties of the circle.
As in subsequent chapters, about half the space is devoted to
experiments and activities that allow the reader to discover the facts
in real-life situations. While some of the activities are old favorites,
many are innovative and imaginative; all are fun and require easily
obtained materials. Requiring both fine and large motor skills, some
experiments are disguised as impressive tricks, while others produce
attractive artwork or yummy cookies. The variety will hold a young
person’s attention while opening his or her mind to the wide-ranging
applications of circles and related shapes.

The author also explores each variant of the circular shape (circle,
sphere, disc, cylinder, cone, and spiral), discussing the occurrence of
each in nature, and how humankind applies them in science, art, and
everyday living. Geometric facts are interspersed with surprising,
amusing, and historical tidbits. The book concludes with a glossary and
index.

Bill Slavin’s illustrations complement the text perfectly. They are
colorful and fun, but never silly, as befits a book that takes a
zestful, fun-loving approach to a serious subject. Highly recommended.