Ruffer's Birthday Party    by Soon-jae Shin & Min-jung Kim Order:  USA  Can Tantan, 2015 (2015) Hardcover      Reviewed by Bob Walch This concept picture book focuses on addition and subtraction skills by using a storyline the child can relate to with likeable characters. Nora is planning a birthday party for her puppy, Ruffer. There will be invitations to send out, a cake to make and other party related activities. All of these things will involve simple addition and subtraction which the reader can do with the main character. You'll have to count the people on the guest list to see how many invitations are necessary, cross off days on the calendar as the party draws closer, and follow a recipe when it comes time to make the cake. Of course, shopping at the store for the cake's ingredients will also involve some math skills. On the day of the party, Ruffer will need a plan for keeping track of the presents he receives and there will be party games to play where counting factors in to seeing who wins. Adults, including teachers and parents, will want to check out the pages at the back of the book on teaching methods and other tips on working with the reader as he or she helps plan for Ruffer's party. You'll find some additional counting exercises too. What's really nice about this book is that there is high interest content plus well thought out math applications. You don't usually find a book of this nature for younger children ... BRAVO! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews