
Reach for this book when your child starts complaining that math is boring, pointless, or too difficult to visualize. It is the perfect antidote for the 'math-anxious' student who thrives on humor and storytelling rather than rote memorization. By stripping away the dry tone of traditional textbooks, Kjartan Poskitt reintroduces geometry and measurement through zany characters and high-stakes comedic scenarios. Beyond the formulas, the book fosters a sense of creative confidence and intellectual curiosity. It encourages children to see the world through a mathematical lens, transforming 'scary' concepts like trigonometry or area into puzzles to be solved. For kids aged 8 to 12, it provides a safe, low-pressure environment to build foundational STEM skills while being genuinely entertained by Philip Reeve's iconic illustrations. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to support the school curriculum with a resource that feels like a treat rather than homework.
The 'murderous' branding is strictly tongue-in-cheek and slapstick in nature, akin to a classic cartoon. The approach is entirely secular and grounded in logic. There are no heavy emotional themes; the focus remains on intellectual empowerment through humor.
A 10-year-old who loves Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Horrible Histories but struggles to stay engaged during math class. It is for the child who learns best through visual humor and needs to know the 'why' behind the rules.
The book is very safe to read cold. Parents might want to keep some paper and a ruler nearby, as the book often inspires kids to try out the 'tricks' or drawings immediately. A parent might see their child staring blankly at a geometry worksheet or saying, 'I am just not a math person.'
Younger readers (ages 8-9) will gravitate toward the comics and the wacky character names, picking up basic shape names. Older readers (11-12) will actually grasp the more complex geometric proofs and measurement conversions hidden within the jokes.
Unlike standard educational supplements, this book treats math as a series of 'cheats' and 'secrets.' It uses a rebellious, punk-rock energy to teach the national curriculum, making it far more memorable than a standard workbook.
Part of the long-running Murderous Maths series, this volume focuses specifically on geometry, angles, and measurement. Using a sketch-comedy format, it introduces recurring characters like the Pongo Brothers and Colonel Crabbe to explain everything from basic polygons to the properties of circles and the intricacies of 3D shapes. It is less a linear story and more an interactive guide to spatial reasoning.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review