The Number Detective (Ages 7-11)
The Number Detective (Ages 7-11)
- SHARPEN logical thinking through cryptic number puzzles that make maths fun
- Includes Problem Solving & Mental Arithmetic
- Aligned to Years 3-6 maths curriculum
- Features systematic detective work that reinforces mathematical vocabulary
About the The Number Detective (Ages 7-11)
The Number Detective transforms maths practice into an engaging puzzle adventure for children aged 7–11 (Years 3–6). If your child finds standard arithmetic drills dull or struggles to apply number skills in new contexts, this puzzle book offers a refreshing alternative that builds logical thinking alongside mental arithmetic mastery. Every cryptic clue demands detective work, encouraging pupils to decode unknown numbers using properties, operations, and systematic reasoning—precisely the problem-solving skills rewarded in Year 6 SATs and throughout the English National Curriculum.
Each puzzle presents a series of mathematical clues that narrow down the identity of a mystery number, reinforcing vocabulary such as factors, multiples, prime numbers, square numbers, and divisibility rules in an active, investigative way. Rather than passively completing worksheets, your child becomes a number detective, testing hypotheses and eliminating possibilities. This hands-on approach deepens understanding of how numbers behave and strengthens mental calculation speed. The puzzles scale naturally across primary years, so whether your Year 3 pupil is mastering place value or your Year 6 child is revising for SATs, the challenges remain accessible yet stretching.

The result is a child who views numbers with curiosity rather than apprehension, who can tackle unfamiliar problems with confidence, and who arrives at exam questions ready to think flexibly. Because the book trains both arithmetic fluency and investigative reasoning, pupils gain the twin advantages of speed and strategic insight—essential for timed assessments and real-world maths. Published by Tarquin and available as a physical book, The Number Detective slots easily into after-school routines, weekend enrichment, or homework sessions, offering screen-free practice that keeps motivation high.
This puzzle book suits any Year 3–6 pupil who enjoys challenges, needs a break from repetitive exercises, or benefits from seeing maths as a game rather than a chore. Parents appreciate the self-directed format: children can work independently, checking their reasoning as they go, while you support from the sidelines without needing to teach new concepts. It's an ideal companion to formal revision guides, adding variety and depth to your home learning toolkit.
- Cryptic number puzzles that develop logical reasoning and problem-solving skills across Years 3–6
- Reinforces curriculum vocabulary including factors, multiples, primes, and square numbers in an active, investigative format
- Builds mental arithmetic fluency and strategic thinking for Year 6 SATs and beyond
- Screen-free, self-directed practice that keeps children engaged and motivated
- Physical book published by Tarquin, suitable for independent work or guided sessions at home
Key Information
- Type
- Revision Guide / Study Book
- Subject
- Maths
- Topics
- Mental Arithmetic, Problem Solving
- Publisher
- Tarquin
- ISBN 13
- 9781899618330
- ISBN 10
- 1899618333
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this suitable for my child?
The The Number Detective (Ages 7-11) is absolutely perfect for children in Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 or Year 6 studying the national curriculum in England.
It is also very useful for children in the devolved nations of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland that study similar curriculums.
Finally, the The Number Detective (Ages 7-11) is also very useful for children studying outside of the UK on comparable international curriculums such as the Cambridge Primary Curriculum or The Pearson Edexcel International Primary Curriculum.
How much is delivery?
Standard delivery within the UK is free of charge for all orders over £30. Orders below £30 carry a £3.95 delivery charge.
We also deliver to over 200 countries across the world! Delivery fees are charged according to the weight of the parcel and are as competitive as we can possibly offer. This is calculated in the checkout where you are given a full delivery cost before we ask for payment.
Full details are on our Delivery Information page.
When will I receive my order?
Orders shipped within the UK are normally delivered within 2-3 working days.
International delivery times vary by destination – the typical time to your country is shown alongside its delivery rate in the 'Do you ship internationally?' section below.
How do I track my delivery?
When your order is shipped, we will send you an email notification that includes your tracking number and a link to the courier's website for you to track your delivery.
Which couriers do you use?
At Exam Ninja, we have no patience for slow, unreliable couriers. As such, we use the tried and trusted couriers, Royal Mail and DPD, for all our deliveries within the UK.
For our global deliveries, we only use the fully tracked couriers DPD, FedEx, TNT, ParcelForce and UPS.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship to over 200 international destinations using fully tracked international courier services.
See our international delivery rates for the full list of destinations, prices and delivery times.