A collection of strange mathematical facts and stories. This anthology covers a whole range of ages, maths and mathematicians, and includes probability paradoxes, jumbled Shakespearean sonnets, record-breaking monkeys and typewriters, and theories of big game hunting. Also featured are stories of people who looked for logical loopholes in the American Constitution, calmed their nerves with algebra or used sextants to measure the buttocks of Hottentot women.
It's great fun to read when baby-sitting, riding a bus/train, even in bathroom. Not a bedtime reading before sleeping, because it will keep you awake. I hope the book, and the other books by the same author, are printed using better paper. They deserve it.
Unbeatable diversion for the throne room
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
Mensa members need read no further; this is NOT a puzzle book. It merely illustrates how Archimedes, Einstein, Erdos, etc. are (not) like the rest of us. In that it succeeds admirably, and that's enough for me. Bonus: for those of you who despaired of learning complex analysis, understanding of a simple pole is found herein.
This isn't a serious math book but...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
... it isn't supposed to be! It is merely a collection of amusing quotes and anecdotes to make you smile and wonder at how beautiful and funny math is! A great book for carrying around in your bag in case you get stuck in a long line somewhere, or arrive too early for an appointment.
very nice but not good enough for serious ones
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
no comments except that you would not regret buying this boo
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