The Big Book of Sudoku Puzzles

Almost the entire book was worked. It shouldn't have been sold in this condition!!!!!

The Big Book of Sudoku Puzzles," Michael Rios, NY, Sterling Publishing, 2005 ISBN: 1-4027-3631-2, PC 320 pgs., (80 pgs. answers), 10" x 8" Unknown 20 years ago, Sudoku ("single numbers") skyrocketed since 1984 as Nikoli Publishers (Japan) formalized rules for a 3 x 3 number grid composed of 9 boxes @ using 0-9 numerals but once within @ box & numerals 0-9 but once criss-crossing the grid. The 30 conferred numbers (varies 24-32) determines difficulty of finding & entering those 51 or so (49-57) which are absent. Not always conspicious, supplied numbers inscribe a symmetrical design. "The Big Book...." consists of 944 puzzles, begins "easy" & progresses to "harder." The format of 4 (four) puzzles per page, each measuring 3" x 3" makes analyses, pencil entries & erasures (if needed) quite easy - and with practice, simple logic, (no math needed) insight develops to spot patterns & formations yielding clues to missing numerals (all answers in back of book). At inception, there is temptation to fill empty squares with every feasibility, - time consuming. In short order, identification of patterns leads to explicit techniques where speed evolves & notations are few. In high order Sudoku, one of several chosen possibilities which, as puzzle becomes more complete, may prove to be incorrect, thus designating the alternative to be genuine. The sole equipment needed is a lead pencil & eraser plus an inquisitive mind which tunes in logic stations. In you are browsing for challenging experiences in mathematics, this is not that book. However, it is a good, non-pornographic mind memory book that'll help ward off Alzheimer's & is warranted compatible with all iPods. Of many books on Sudoku, this is my favorite.