Who This Author Is

Stuart J. Murphy writes picture books that teach math through everyday stories. Coyotes All Around pairs a simple, rhythmic narrative with clear visual cues to explore counting and patterns, helping young readers see math in nature and community scenes without didactic language.

Murphy’s approach uses relatable characters and familiar settings to turn abstract concepts into moments kids recognize and imitate. Coyotes All Around models observation and patterning—skills readers can practice while following the story and illustrations, making early math feel accessible and purposeful.

Best Place To Start

Hamster Champs (MathStart 3)

Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2005 • quick commitment

It stands out because it asks for less time than many of the longer volumes on this page.

Author At A Glance

Best known for: Math-themed picture books • Simple everyday math concepts • Child-friendly stories with practical problems

Genres and themes: Early math • Picture book fiction • Real-world problem solving • Classroom-friendly activities

Who this author is best for: Great for parents and teachers seeking gentle, story-based introductions to basic math for preschool and early elementary kids.

Start with this character-driven MathStart title to try Murphy’s approach and look for other MathStart books for similar topics and levels.

Top Books To Start With

  1. Hamster Champs (MathStart 3)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2005 • quick commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 2005 • 40 pages.

  2. It's About Time! (MathStart 1)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2005 • quick commitment

    readers who want a faster first book

  3. Polly's Pen Pal (MathStart 3)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2005 • quick commitment

  4. Same Old Horse (MathStart 2)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2005 • quick commitment

  5. A House for Birdie (MathStart 1)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2004 • quick commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 2004 • 40 pages.

  6. Earth Day--Hooray! (MathStart 3)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2004 • quick commitment

  7. Mighty Maddie

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2004 • quick commitment

  8. Mighty Maddie (MathStart 1)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2004 • quick commitment

  9. 3 Little Firefighters (MathStart 1)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2003 • quick commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 2003 • 40 pages.

  10. Coyotes All Around (MathStart 2)

    Harpercollins Childrens Books • 2003 • quick commitment

More Books By Stuart J. Murphy