The 2025 China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair (CCBF) once again brought magic to life from November 14 to 16 at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center (SWEECC). Celebrating over a decade of inspiring young minds, CCBF continues to live up to its powerful motto—“Embracing the Future.” More than just a book fair, it has grown into a vibrant hub where creativity, storytelling, and innovation meet. As one of the leading global platforms for children’s book publishing, CCBF connects authors, illustrators, publishers, and readers in an atmosphere bursting with imagination and possibility.
Beyond the colorful displays of books and illustrations, this year’s fair featured a dynamic lineup of events—from insightful conferences and seminars to the prestigious Golden Pinwheel Young Illustrators Competition, the engaging Illustrators Avenue, and the inspiring Children Plus Exhibition. Each activity reflected CCBF’s unwavering mission to promote quality children’s literature and nurture a lifelong love for reading among the young.
Citi of Books (COB) was thrilled to be part of this event! Traveling all the way from Albuquerque to Beijing, COB proudly featured 16 remarkable titles from our talented authors. Among the standout selections that captivated attendees was “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” by Dr. Paul Shoecraft.
Dr. Paul Shoecraft is a trailblazing mathematician who has closely examined the teaching of arithmetic—a subject that has often been neglected since the onset of Progressive Education in the late 19th century. In his book “Arithmetic Counts,” he contends that conventional textbook-focused math programs in American elementary schools are actually limiting children’s mathematical growth.
Shoecraft advocates for a fresh movement in national math reform, reminiscent of the New Math era of the 1960s, but with a clear focus on empowering elementary school teachers. His goal is to provide educators with practical strategies to ensure that every student can succeed in arithmetic.
Central to his approach is the idea of understanding rather than rote memorization. Shoecraft emphasizes teaching the core principles behind arithmetic instead of simply assigning endless practice problems. By incorporating games, songs, and movement into lessons, he shows that nearly all children can master arithmetic—a critical foundation not only for algebra and higher-level math but also for disciplines such as science and music.
“Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” emphasizes the fundamental importance of arithmetic as the foundation for success in STEM fields, arguing that true mathematical proficiency begins with a strong grasp of basic arithmetic. Shoecraft echoes Bill Gates’ perspective, highlighting that every accomplished scientist, engineer, mathematician, or technician depends on arithmetic, reinforcing its vital role in both education and professional life.
A standout feature of Shoecraft’s work is the introduction of MOVE IT Math, a method he developed over fifty years ago that has consistently shown results in improving students’ understanding of mathematics.
In addressing the challenges of learning math, Shoecraft draws inspiration from Charles M. Schulz, creator of Peanuts: “No problem is too big to run away from.” This quote serves as a motivating reminder that obstacles—even those in math education—can be overcome with the right approach.
Although highly effective, MOVE IT Math is still relatively unknown, leaving a significant gap in America’s educational system. Shoecraft urges a reevaluation of traditional teaching practices and encourages the adoption of innovative methods, paving the way for stronger math skills and a brighter future in STEM for generations to come.
You can purchase the book through the link below: