Little Man in the Map Review

The Little Man In The Map,
With Clues to Remember ALL 50 States
Written by E. Andrew Martonyi
Illustrated by Ed Olson

Schoolside Press has come out with a brilliant little book, The Little Man in the Map, which uses clues, acronyms, visualization and rhymes, to help kids learn the names of all 50 states.

It begins by creating a reference point, in the map of the United States, by using the shapes of Midwestern states to create the likeness of a little man. (See picture of Minnesota-Louisiana below. You can see the resemblance, can't you? Hat, face, shirt, pants and boots?) The story continues, drawing relational references between this little man, Mim, and the states that are around him.

Fun, creative stories that capture your imagination as well as create memory links that help you remember the information that you just learned, without even realizing it. This is a book that I will continue to use with my children because it is a fun, painless way to learn US geography! It is a fantastic book that is superbly illustrated.

The first time my family sat down to listen to the story, I wasn't sure how much my kids would pick up. (Take a peek at my engrossed kids below!) Sure, they've heard state names in passing, but we haven't specifically studied the names of all 50 states yet. My kids are still pretty young (10 & under). Yet they loved it and my husband and I were both impressed with how much they retained! Where were these books when I was a kid!?!









The end of the book there is an advertisement for an upcoming book with clues for state capitals. It's already on MY list!

The Schoolside Press website has coloring pages, that compliment The Little Man In The Map, available to help reinforce what the kids have learned! There will also be a teachers guide available soon! Click HERE to visit their website.

It runs for $19.95. There is also a Full Color 38x22 Little Man In The Map Wall Map available via the website. Right now they are offering FREE shipping over the holidays!