Jayden's Rescue

Kristin Butcher writes novels for young adults. Her most recent works
are Cairo Kelly and the Mann, The Gamma War, and The Tomorrow Tunnel.

Magic and mathematics don’t usually mix, but in Jayden’s Rescue they
combine perfectly.

It begins when Alex Isaac Fog finds a magic pencil that can solve any
mathematical problem. This is a wonderful discovery for Alex,
who—though he loves stories and reading—is terrible at solving math
problems. In fact, more often than not, he fails the weekly math test.
With the help of the magic pencil though, he starts recording perfect
scores. So when he loses the pencil, he is understandably upset.

Seeking solace, he retreats to the comfort of his bookshelf, where he
notices a book he’s never seen before—Jayden’s Rescue. As Alex
begins to read, he is introduced to good Queen Jayden, as well as evil
King Rechner of a neighboring realm. When Jayden refuses Rechner’s
marriage proposal, he spirits her away and locks her in the deepest,
darkest room in the dungeon of his castle. In order to free her, the
reader of the book has to solve 400 math puzzles, one for each monster
Jayden must pass. With the help of two friends—and no magic, Alex
begins the task. But when he succeeds, evil Rechner comes after him!

This book provides a great way to help children improve their
problem-solving skills while experiencing an exciting adventure.
Charming illustrations and puzzles posed in lilting verse add further
interest to the story. The novel would be excellent for classroom use or
as a fun activity for parents and youngsters to share. Highly
recommended.