Mage Merlin's Unsolved Mathematical Mysteries

Name: Mage Merlin's Unsolved Mathematical Mysteries
Brand: Penguin Random House NZ
SKU: 9780262542753
Price: 27.0 NZD
Availability: OutOfStock

By Matt Harvey and Satyan Devadoss

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4.1

( 31 ratings, 3 reviews)

Summary

Mage Merlin's Unsolved Mathematical Mysteries by Matt Harvey and Satyan Devadoss delves into the enchanting world of mathematical puzzles and enigmas as explored through a magical narrative lens. This creative journey intertwines the timeless appeal of Merlin's legendary wisdom with contemporary mathematical challenges, inviting readers to ponder unsolved problems that bridge both history and imagination. Perfect for anyone fascinated by the intersection of mathematics and mysticism, this book offers a fresh perspective on age-old conundrums.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy exploring the fascinating connections between mathematics and the natural world. It offers a whimsical journey into mathematical mysteries, perfect for those who love being challenged by puzzling concepts and are thrilled by the elegance of mathematical ideas.

Description

Sixteen of today's greatest unsolved mathematical puzzles in a story-driven, illustrated volume that invites readers to peek over the edge of the unknown.

Most people think of mathematics as a set of useful tools designed to answer analytical questions, beginning with simple arithmetic and ending with advanced calculus. But, as Mage Merlin's Unsolved Mathematical Mysteries shows, mathematics is filled with intriguing mysteries that take us to the edge of the unknown. This richly illustrated, story-driven volume presents sixteen of today's greatest unsolved mathematical puzzles, all understandable by anyone with elementary math skills. These intriguing mysteries are presented to readers as puzzles that have time-travelled from Camelot, preserved in the notebook of Merlin, the wise magician in King Arthur's court.

Our guide is Mage Maryam (named in honour of the brilliant young mathematician, the late Maryam Mirzakhani), a distant descendant of Merlin. Maryam introduces the mysteries—each of which is presented across two beautifully illustrated pages—and provides mathematical and historical context afterward. We find Merlin confronting mathematical puzzles involving tinker toys (a present for Camelot's princesses from the sorceress Morgana), cake-slicing at a festival, Lancelot's labyrinth, a vault for the Holy Grail, and more. Each mystery is a sword awaiting removal from its stone, capturing the beauty and power of mathematics.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The book presents an engaging exploration of 16 intriguing mathematical problems, both classical and novel, with simple yet complex challenges enticing to all levels of mathematical enthusiasts. The authors have crafted an inviting and unique narrative full of captivating illustrations, inviting readers to delve into various topics like geometry and number theory through a blend of storytelling and puzzles. Reviews highlight the book's ability to enchant readers with unsolved mysteries, while simultaneously educating and inspiring wonder in the mathematical world.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780262542753

Publisher: MIT Press Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 24 August 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: MIT Press

Illustration: 38 colour illustrations

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 229.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 120

Collections

Education & Reference Matt Harvey Non-Fiction Penguin Books Satyan Devadoss Science & Nature

About the Author

Satyan Linus Devadoss is the Fletcher Jones Professor of Applied Mathematics and Professor of Computer Science at the University of San Diego. A recipient of two national teaching awards, he has published on topics ranging from origami and cartography to phylogenetics and particle collisions. Matthew Harvey is Professor of Mathematics at the University of Virginia's College at Wise and the author of the textbook Geometry Illuminated.