Seasoned journalist Kira Vermond draws on her background as both a finance writer and contributor to publications such as Today’s Parent and Owl for her first children’s book.

Written for a middle-grade audience, The Secret Life of Money could be seen as a consumer education textbook for the new generation. It offers an in-depth exploration of money that moves beyond its history and purpose through well-organized chapters comprised of playful introductions, comics, and entertaining and informative sidebars that condense information into comprehensive, easily read, engaging, and approachable segments.

The book also discusses employment, moving past the monetary reasons for working to look at the sense of purpose and identity jobs bring. It also examines the logistics of saving, investing, credit and loans, philanthropy, and fundraising.

While avoiding a didactic tone, Vermond challenges readers to consider the impact money has on their lives, asking hard questions about consumerism, spending and saving habits, and how to help others. She also isn’t afraid to tackle tough issues, like the role big banks played in the recession of 2008.

Toronto graphic artist and illustrator Clayton Hanmer’s artwork does much more than simply break up the pages of text. In addition to providing cartoon-style drawings, Hanmer illustrates Vermond’s points through comics panels and diagrams.

Vermond has written a book that shows respect for children as intelligent learners capable of understanding concepts many adults find confusing. In fact, adults might consider reading the book not only to foster dialogue with their kids, but to learn a few things themselves.