Spring 2022 Titles: Author Q&A with David Cole
Our spring 2022 titles have hit the shelves! To celebrate the release of The Math Kids: The Triangle Secret and Lucy & Dee: The Silk Road, we thought we'd give you a glimpse behind the scenes by talking to the folks who made these titles happen. Read on to find out what author David Cole has to say about The Math Kids: The Triangle Secret, book six in the Math Kids series.
Author Q&A
What inspired you to write The Math Kids The Triangle Secret?
There were two big reasons. First, the math. I've always been fascinated with Pascal's Triangle and its many hidden patterns and I knew it could serve as a backdrop for the story. Second, I thought it was time to expand on the storyline. This book moves from kids solving mysteries in their own hometown to international intrigue with an FBI agent kidnapped while searching for clues in Egypt. This transition opens up other opportunities for future books.
How is this book different from the previous books in the series?
One important difference is that it exposes the kids to more risk than in previous books. In the past, their biggest threats had come from classroom bullies. The stakes are dramatically increased as their paths intersect with international criminals. In keeping with the last couple of books, the story is longer and more involved and the puzzles continue to get tougher.
What, in your opinion, is the strength of this book?
The math is engaging—of course I'm going to start with the math, right? Pascal's Triangle is simple in structure but incredible complex in the secrets it hides. It helps kids to see math's potential without having to know the intricacies of the underlying math. On the story side, it's strength is its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats chapter after chapter. It's a nonstop rollercoaster ride from beginning to end.
What categories of interest do you think this book fits into for readers?
This book would be a perfect fit for kids who love mysteries, solving puzzles, and lots of action.
Did you have any particular challenges in writing this book compared to the others in the series?
Actually, this book flowed from the very beginning. I had just finished writing An Incorrect Solution, which was a tougher book to write because it dealt with a difficult subject. The Triangle Secret has a lot more action and the scenes almost wrote themselves. It was fun to write and hopefully will be just as fun to read.
If you enjoyed this Q&A, check out our other interviews or read more about our spring 2022 titles.
Spring Titles
Our spring titles, Lucy & Dee: The Silk Road and The Math Kids: The Triangle Secrets are now available. Order your copies today!
The Math Kids: The Triangle Secret
by David Cole, illustrated by Shannon O'Toole
"Sure to excite and engage our young math enthusiasts" – Story Monsters Ink
Lucy & Dee: The Silk Road
by Kirsten Marion
“Unexpectedly trapped in a fantasy kingdom, best friends Lucy and Dee embark on a quest. An enthralling, fast-paced adventure, hinting of more to come.” – Kirkus Reviews
“Lucy and Dee is an appealing fantasy novel in which two friends go on a wondrous adventure in a magical land.” – Foreword Clarion Reviews 5/5
“A fun and engrossing read, perfect for middle-grade readers who love a new adventure.” – The Children's Book Review