Connected: Networks for Kids by R. A. Stephens. Illus. by Tamlyn Teow

Connected: Networks for Kids is a primary years introduction to the mathematical concept of ‘graph theory’ where networks and network diagrams are visual ways of displaying connections and relationships. From researching the Australian Curriculum this concept is more likely to be introduced in Year 10 Maths but this narrative nonfiction picture book gives an accessible and concise explanation of the concept to primary school aged readers.

Chloe has a dot on her top which is called a ‘node’. Her siblings and friends also have nodes and they are connected by lines or ‘edges’. This is called a network. The network expands with more family and friend connections and this is called a ‘spanning tree’. When the edges loop back together again it is called a ‘circuit’.

As well as increasing children’s understanding of how networks function and grow, Connected: Networks for Kids also thoughtfully reinforces the idea that children and adults form networks reminding readers that everyone is connected in meaningful ways.

The colourful and vibrant illustrations begin with Chloe alone on a single page and finish with a diverse range of characters in front of a world wide connected map on a double page spread. The endpapers add to the visual interest with the front showing people standing alone and the back showing them all connected. There is also a valuable page with Extra Maths Facts.

Themes: Mathematics, Connections, Networks, Community, Mathematical Concepts & Language.

Kathryn Beilby