Math Letters: Discover a different side of mathematics

by W.B. Schaefman

Based on the popular math-focused TikTok account that has garnered nearly 100 million views, Math Letters strives to share a different side of mathematics with a wide audience.

There is virtually no scientific endeavor that does not rely on mathematics in a fundamental way—from physics and engineering to economics and biology. Put simply, mathematics is the language of our universe, and those who are fortunate enough to pursue it often see the world around them in a new light. Its distinction as the "queen of the sciences" is well deserved.

Unfortunately, mathematics holds another distinction as the most difficult and anxiety-inducing subject in school. There is no doubt about it, math can be tough. Analytical thinking is a skill that rarely comes naturally. Couple this with the fact that most of the math we learn in school has little direct application to our daily lives, and it is no surprise that many people view the subject with a vague sense of apprehension.

But there is a different side of mathematics, one of profound beauty and mystery that revolves around patterns and abstract ideas. Many of the topics in this book would never be encountered unless you happen to hold an undergraduate degree in math.

Each topic is presented as a separate "letter" and is, for the most part, self-contained. There are no formal prerequisites beyond arithmetic and a curious mind. This book is suitable for a wide range of backgrounds, from high school students and their parents to business professionals, educators, and retirees.

Genres: Mathematics

180 pages, Paperback

Published June 14, 2022

Reviews

[Andrew Conboy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is organized into 20 different letters, each of which explore a different mathematical topic, concept or discovery. Topics covered in some of the earlier letters would pop up later in other letters, connecting together in super interesting ways.

I found that I was more or less blown away after many of the letters. From fractal generation to mysterious unexplained mathematical patterns to fascinating proofs, the author does such a good job of explaining each topic clearly, and he leaves you thinking about the impact or power of what you just read. The book really does a good job of showing the importance and pervasiveness of mathematics.

I would recommend this book to a wide range of people. Because it is so clearly written and well-explained step-by-step, anyone from interested high school students to retired folks looking to learn about math would probably enjoy this book. It is not difficult to read, but I found myself re-reading small sections or sentences a few times to better understand some concepts.

Since each letter is not necessarily connected to the next, I found that reading one at a time worked best for me because it allowed some time for thought and reflection. The author also creates great videos on TikTok (@mathletters) and covers a wide variety of interesting topics (some of which are covered in the book). I found it helpful to first read the letter, and then find the TikTok to go along with it. Seeing / learning the info in multiple ways was helpful!

[joaquin · Rating 5 out of 5]

i do heart maths. lots of interesting topics, some i’ve heard but some i haven’t. the ones i heard still taught me things though. maths maths maths