MG – Not So Common Cent$: Super-Duper Important Facts About Money You Can’t Afford to Miss

Flynn, Sarah Wassner. Not So Common Cent$: Super-Duper Important Facts About Money You Can’t Afford to Miss. National Geographic Kids, 2023. 978-1-426-37328-2. 160 p. $14.99. Grades 3-6. 

In full-color, excited ‘did you know this?’ National Geographic style, Not So Common Cent$ introduces readers to money: its history; its creation and evolution; its growth worldwide; and how to make wise money decisions by working, saving, investing, and philanthropy. Financial independence is the goal, because with it, “not only will you have more choices in life, but you’ll also be in a better position to support yourself and others and contribute to your community” (9). The book answers questions like: What makes a coin valuable? When we run out of money, why can’t we just print more? How do countries make money? How does bitcoin work? And of course, money myths and ‘weird but true’ facts. Although this browseable nonfiction book offers just short bursts of information, that information is enlightening and can lead readers to further questions and learning. 

THOUGHTS: A great book for curious kids and a fun way to ease kids into financial literacy.  

332.4 Money

YA – Financial Literacy (Series NF)

Financial Literacy. Essential Library, 2020. $26.00 ea. $156.00 set of 6. 112 p. Grades 7-12.

Burling, Alexis. Managing Debt. 978-1-532-11914-9.
Donohue, Moira Rose. Making Smart Money Choices. 978-1-532-11913-2.
Edwards, Sue Bradford. Earning, Saving, and Investing. 978-1-532-11911-8.
Hulick, Kathryn. Protecting Financial Data. 978-1-532-11915-6.
LaPierre, Yvette. Economy 101. 978-1-532-11912-5.
Regan, Michael. The Cost of College. 978-1-532-11910-1.

Financial literacy is an area of a student’s education that may be heavily influenced by one’s upbringing and socioeconomic status. ABDO’s Financial Literacy series attempts to help libraries level the playing field by giving ALL students access to valuable information. This reviewer had the opportunity to read The Cost of College. With eight chapters ranging from Where to start? to What if I change My Mind? this title covers many aspects of what students should know before going to college. Each chapter has clear headings, interesting graphics and text highlights, and student worksheets. The book concludes with key takeaways, a glossary, additional resources, source notes, and an index.

THOUGHTS: This series is a good addition to enhance secondary library collections seeking to refresh their financial literacy offerings.

300s Business & Finance          Maryalice Bond, South Middleton SD