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Readers Read. Writers Write. Mathers Math!
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Readers Read. Writers Write. Mathers Math!
Bridging the Gap Between Literacy and Mathematics

Foreword by Jennifer M. Bay-Williams, Grades K-5



November 2025 | 248 pages | Corwin

Early Literacy + Early Numeracy = Academic Success

When it comes to math, educators can feel the same tension they see in their students—from uncertainty and anxiety to a lack of confidence in their own skills. This mindset creates barriers in teaching and learning and perpetuates disparities in achievement. Readers Read. Writers Write. Mathers Math!: Bridging the Gap Between Literacy and Mathematics introduces a groundbreaking framework to support educators in transforming their own math identities and creating classrooms that redefine the concept of literacy to include numeracy, so that every student feels capable, confident, and excited about math.

Author Deborah Peart Crayton challenges the notion that math is optional; instead she empowers educators to build a positive relationship with math while helping their students do the same. Grounded in the belief that math, like literacy, is essential for navigating the world, this book offers strategies and tips to reshape math instruction and create a supportive environment where every student thrives.

Through storytelling, practical tools, actionable plans, and “mathfirmations,” this book

  • Redefines mathematics as a vital part of life
  • Applies literacy teaching strategies to math instruction to inspire math engagement outside of the traditional block
  • Integrates math into reading, writing, and other subjects for meaningful, cross-curricular learning
  • Uses oral traditions, visual storytelling, and interdisciplinary methods to create a joyful, rich, and holistic learning experience

Whether you’re building confidence in your own math skills or looking to foster a community of math enthusiasts in your classroom, this book will equip you to lead the way. By viewing math as an essential life skill rather than an exclusive discipline, every child can realize their potential as a Mather!

 
Foreword
 
Preface: Mathers 4 Life
 
Featured Mathers
 
Introduction: Is Math Optional?
 
Part 1: Readers Read. Writers Write. Mathers Math!
 
Chapter 1: We are all Readers, Writers, and Mathers!
 
Chapter 2: Redefining the Core Academic Skills
 
Chapter 3: Let’s Share Stories NOT Problems!
 
Part 2: Mathers Gonna Math!: Taking Math Outside of the Math Block
 
Chapter 4: Mathematizing Across Content Areas
 
Chapter 5: Don’t Skip the Fun Stuff!
 
Part 3: Building a Community of Readers, Writers, and Mathers
 
Chapter 6: Becoming the Mather Your Students Need You to Be
 
Chapter 7: Creating the Conditions for Positive Math (Learning) Experiences
 
Chapter 8: Summing it up!
 
References

Deborah challenges us to connect our strengths in literacy instruction and consider how to apply that to math instruction. Grounded in real classroom practice, she demonstrates how storytelling, discussion, and language-rich routines can foster positive math identities and help every child see themself as a mather. It is a call to action to change our culture's negative attitude to mathematics. A powerful resource for everyone who strives to make math meaningful and empowering.

Marria Carrington
Mount Holyoke Collegem Durect
South Hadley, MA

This book is a much-needed invitation to reimagine what it means to teach and learn math. Deborah writes from the heart and shares her insights and practical strategies to build math communities where all learners can thrive. If you are committed to nurturing joyful, inclusive, and empowering math experiences for all students, this book has everything you need.

Mike Flynn
Flynn Educational Consulting INC
Northampton, MA
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For instructors

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ISBN: 9781071949139
£31.99