Discover your next great read with our book reviews

400 Advanced Math Riddles for Kids Ages 10-12 Brain-Boosting Puzzles, Logic Games & Problem-Solving Challenges for Grad...

by Rajni Sharma

Book Details

Publisher:Sourcebooks, Inc.
Published:2025-06-17
Pages:88
Language:English
ISBN:1638789509

Reading Info

Age Range:8-12

About This Book

# **Mind Masters: A Brain-Boosting Adventure – A Comprehensive Review of *400 Advanced Math Riddles for Kids Ages 10-12*** ## **🎯 Introduction: Why This Book Stands Out** If you’re looking for...

Our Review

If you’re looking for a math book that doesn’t just teach but engages, Rajni Sharma’s 400 Advanced Math Riddles for Kids Ages 10-12 is a must-have. Unlike traditional workbooks that drone on with repetitive drills, this book transforms math into an exciting puzzle-solving adventure. Designed for grades 5-6, it’s packed with brain-teasing riddles, logic games, and problem-solving challenges that make learning feel like play.

But does it live up to the hype? After spending weeks testing these riddles with my own kids (and even challenging myself!), I can confidently say—yes. This review dives deep into why this book is a standout in children’s math education and how it compares to other puzzle books.


The book is divided into four key sections, each escalating in difficulty:

  • Number Ninjas (arithmetic puzzles)
  • Logic Legends (critical thinking challenges)
  • Geometry Geniuses (visual and spatial reasoning)
  • Word Problem Wizards (real-world math applications)

Each section contains 100 riddles, ensuring a wide variety of problems that prevent monotony. The progression is well-balanced—kids start with confidence-boosting puzzles before tackling more complex brain teasers.

Unlike dry math workbooks, Sharma injects playful storytelling into the riddles. Characters like "Professor Pi" and "The Math Detective" guide kids through challenges, adding a layer of engagement. While not a traditional narrative, these elements make the book feel more like an interactive game than a textbook.

The language is clear, concise, and kid-friendly, avoiding overly complex jargon. Each riddle is presented in a visually appealing format, with diagrams and illustrations where needed. The tone is encouraging, with hints and solutions provided at the back (a lifesaver for frustrated parents!).


At its core, this book isn’t just about solving equations—it’s about developing critical life skills:

  • Problem-Solving: Kids learn to approach challenges methodically.
  • Persistence: Harder riddles teach resilience.
  • Creativity: Some puzzles require out-of-the-box thinking.

One standout feature is the real-world application of problems. For example, a riddle might ask:

"If a pizza is divided among 5 friends with specific topping preferences, how many slices does each get?"
This makes math feel relevant and fun.


I tested this book with my 11-year-old (a math enthusiast) and my 10-year-old (who usually groans at math homework). The results?

  • The Enthusiast loved the harder logic puzzles and raced through them.
  • The Reluctant Learner actually asked to do "just one more riddle" before bed—a parenting win!

The competitive element (racing against siblings or parents) added extra excitement. We even turned some riddles into family game nights.


How does this stack up against competitors like The Big Book of Math Riddles or Beast Academy Puzzles?

Feature 400 Advanced Math Riddles Competitors
Variety 400+ puzzles across multiple math disciplines Often focus on one area (e.g., logic or arithmetic)
Engagement Storytelling elements & characters More traditional format
Difficulty Gradual progression, great for grades 5-6 Some are either too easy or too advanced
Visual Appeal Clean layout with illustrations Often text-heavy

Verdict: This book strikes the perfect balance between challenge and fun.


Diverse puzzles keep kids engaged.
Encourages independent thinking with hints rather than direct answers.
Great for classrooms, homeschooling, or family fun.

A few riddles feel repetitive (e.g., similar word problems).
Solutions could use more explanation (some just give the answer without steps).

Still, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise outstanding book.


  • Kids ages 10-12 who love math (or need a fun way to practice).
  • Parents & teachers looking for engaging supplemental material.
  • Homeschoolers who want interactive learning tools.

Not ideal for: Kids who prefer straightforward drills without puzzles.


One of my favorite riddles:

"A train leaves Station A at 60 mph. Another leaves Station B at 40 mph. When will they meet if the stations are 300 miles apart?"

Discussion Prompt: How do you make word problems less intimidating for kids?


Rajni Sharma’s 400 Advanced Math Riddles is a brilliant blend of education and entertainment. It turns math into an adventure, making it perfect for kids who need a challenge or those who dread traditional worksheets.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
"The best math puzzle book we’ve tried this year!"


What’s your experience with math riddle books? Have you tried this one? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚀

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.

0