Odd Numbers

by Herbert McKay

Mathematics has a reputation of being dull and difficult. Here is an antidote. This lively exploration of arithmetic considers its basic processes and manipulations, demonstrating their value and power and justifying an enduring interest in the subject. With humour and insight, the author shows how basic mathematics relates to everyday life – as true now as when this book was originally published in 1940. The introductory treatment of millions, billions and even trillions could be profitably read by aspiring bankers, economists or politicians. H. G. Wells is gently teased for his mistake in applying the law of proportionality in a novel. McKay politely adjusts the astronomical scales selected by the eminent cosmologist Sir James Jeans. He confidently navigates the hazards of averages, approximations and units. For anyone interested in what numbers mean and how they can be used most effectively, this book will still educate and delight.

228 pages, Paperback

First published July 20, 2009

Reviews

[Thomas Schulte · Rating 2 out of 5]

I recall being about ten years old at a summertime family picnic. My dear, great aunt came up to as I was huddled in the only available shade, away from the group. She began lecturing me on the antisocial evils of the then new, hand-held electronic games. When I turned the device to show her it was my LED display calculator her expression of confusion and sadness needed the Steven Wright punch line “you’re a strange child, aren’t you?”

If am ever the adult in that exchange, I’ll put Odd Numbers into the number-obsessed youngster’s hands.

Look for my full review at MAA Reviews:
http://mathdl.maa.org/mathDL/19/?pa=r...