Secrets, Lies, and Algebra: Using a Novel to Explore Mathematics Concepts

In this article, the author recounts his experience teaching mathematics through the novel, Secrets, Lies, and Algebra, with preservice teachers. With the emphasis on infusing literary aspects (i.e., reading, writing, speaking, and listening) into mathematics, the author shares this mathematical text useful for doing this work with middle level students and educators alike. In so doing, he shares an innovative instructional strategy to engage middle level constituents in this interdisciplinary work. He recommends for other middle level educators to conjoin literature and mathematics in their pedagogical practices.