SCIENCES

The Joy of X: A Guided Tour of Math, from One to Infinity

by Steven Strogatz
. October 2012. 336p. 978-0-54751-765-0. 27.
COPY ISBN
Most people either love or hate mathematics, and much of the latter group’s ill will can be traced to a poor presentation of the subject in grade school. In this book, frequent RadioLab guest Strogatz (applied mathematics, Cornell Univ.; Sync: How Order Emerges from Chaos in the Universe, Nature, and Daily Life) makes a tremendous effort to remedy those past failings in math education. He is not afraid to include formulas, but he eschews calculation in favor of intuitive explanation. Each topic is presented clearly, spiced by humorous asides and accompanied by a selection of useful sources of additional information both in print and online for those who want to know more about the subject.
VERDICT This most entertaining popular mathematics book of recent years is highly recommended, particularly for educated laypeople looking to repair past antimath prejudices or middle school students just starting their mathematical education. [See Prepub Alert, 5/15/12.]
Reviewed by Sue White , Oct 15, 2012
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Namesake: Reflections on a Warrior Woman
by Nuseibeh, N.S
NONFICTION

Inspired To Climb Higher: The Challenges, Questions, Struggles, and Joy of Earning Your Doctoral Degree
by Middlebrook-Thomas, Beverly & Others
NONFICTION

Queering Rehoboth Beach: Beyond the Boardwalk
by Sears, James T
NONFICTION

Belonging Without Othering: How We Save Ourselves and the World
by Powell, John A. & Stephen Menendian
NONFICTION

1217: The Battles That Saved England
by Hanley, Catherine
NONFICTION

Rolling: Blackness and Mediated Comedy
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?