From Zero to Infinity: What Makes Numbers Interesting

By Constance Bowman Reid

Book Overview

From Zero to Infinity is a combination of number lore, number history, and sparkling descriptions of the simply stated but exceedingly difficult problems posed by the most ordinary numbers that first appeared in 1955 and has been kept in print continuously ever since. With the fifth edition this classic has been updated to report on advances in number theory over the last 50 years, including the proof of Fermat's Last Theorem. Deceptively simple in style and structure, it is a book to which the reader will return again and again, gaining greater understanding and satisfaction with each reading.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1568812736
• ISBN13: 9781568812731
• Release Date: February 2006
• Publisher: A K PETERS
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.53 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.0" x 7.9"

Customer Reviews

Old but good writer

Constance Reid is one of those authors where I ended up buying everything she wrote. If you are advanced in mathematics she might be a tad elementary; but if you are an imbecile when it comes to mathematics as I am, you may find her interesting. It is number theory; however Reid's relationship with the little fellows seems to be more personal, more introspective than many number theorists.

Numbers being treated with respect

Few books capture the range and rapture of mathematics like this one. Even though only twelve numbers are discussed, (zero through 9, e and aleph-zero), many of the trials, tribulations and joys of numbers and their admirers comes through. The style cannot merely be described by the word clarity, as this is a work that can be read by virtually anyone, even though a lot of mathematics is presented. With numbers being touched, almost lovingly fondled, rather than discussed, this book belongs in every library. And it should be read, and read, and read, . . . Published in Journal of Recreational Mathematics, reprinted with permission.