By KM on August 26, 2017

Verified Purchase

The Counting Game by Cynthia Fabian is a story about Max. Max is a preteen that suffers from dyscalculia.
This is the first time I heard about this condition, and the book beautifully presents what it is. Dyscalculia is a condition where someone cannot use numbers in his or her life. A simple calculation of addition is hard for them. Or remembering associations between numbers.
The book describes the adventures of how Max with the valuable help of his parents manages to overcome this disability situation.
His primary weapon seems to be threefold. A good relationship with his pets, Pecos his parrot and Boss his dog. Second his friendship with other kids, his neighbors, twins Jeff and Santina, his love for his best friend Eric and his step sister Tori. Finally the most important of the three his guitar lessons.
It seems that when Max started learning how to play the guitar and also read music, his dyscalculia was not a big a problem as it was.
Lovely book. Beautiful, optimistic story.

Comment

By happyinflorida3 on June 1, 2017

I suck at math too! I am a lot better at English than math. My son is dyslexic and has these struggles too. He liked the story, because he was able to relate. It was good to hear that he is not the only one who has these struggles, and that he should not give up. I think the friend in the bird probably happens more than kids admit. Sometimes it is easier to talk to an imaginary friend instead of a real person, (probably for adults too!) Whatever helps a child succeed and not to give up, should not be discouraged! Great book!

Comment

By Baila L. Miller on May 14, 2017

“The Counting Game” by Cynthia Fabian accomplishes what good art always achieves when it is well thought out, provocative, and meaningful. The story confirms that there are heroes around us all day and throughout our lives. Everyday heroes are people who define themselves with their earnest choices and their kind words.
“The Counting Game” teaches the reader that modern technology can be used for good intentions or for hurtful insults. It reminds parents how important it is to make friendships with neighbors and school mates. It extols the most simple life activities and makes them defining moments of childhood.
I highly recommend this wonderful, sweet, elegant, funny, and refined work.
Baila Miller, B.A, M.A., Teacher Specialist