This is a good straightforward book for children to learn about banks and money. They will learn about how and why to use a bank as well as banking terms such as deposit, withdrawal, loan, and interest. The book includes an exercise for the children to fill in a bankbook that shows deposits and withdrawals. This book would be good for preschoolers and early adolescents to explore addition and subtraction through a real-world application.

As with most books about mathematics, What is a Bank does not contain conflict. Voice could be interpreted from a young banker’s point of view, but that would be a stretch. The book gives voice to the banking institutions which would be very glad for all children to be comfortable with using their services. This book is informational and has a positive tone ensuring that using a bank keeps their money safe. Although the cover photo is not impressive, the large rounded font sets an inviting tone and lets kids know that this book will be easy to read. I appreciated that the photographs included both genders and several skin tones. I got sentimental seeing the picture of the young banker signing a form at the teller’s desk. I can't wait to do that with my son!

I would read this book to my child. ( )