Funny Money

Children's Literature

Add up your money and have some fun with this informative and entertaining book. While the topic of money remains constant, the book's approach to the subject varies. There are jokes, tricks with coins, trivia, and several ways to fold money. The beginning pages tell how things like cows, or sheep, or seashells were traded as money long ago and explains how the word "cash" came to be used. Facts about coins and currency are sprinkled throughout the book. Readers will learn how to "wow" friends and family when they master the coin tricks. Some tricks with the one dollar bill, or a buck, result in producing a heart, a pig, and a bird that can be used to talk to, or "yak" with friends. A catchy cover depicts George Washington in the pose as he appears on one dollar bills. In a playful manner, this George is "doctored up" a bit. Inside the book, other humorous line drawings and photos of real money work well. The book's format allows for it to be read in entirety or, most likely, a little at a time. 2005, Darby Creek Publishing, Ages 8 to 12.
—Nancy Garhan Attebury