The Mathematics of Various Entertaining Subjects

"This book is a fascinating treasure trove of puzzles, brain teasers, and mathematical recreations that will keep your mind busy for months, if not years. A true gem that is destined to become a classic."--Eli Maor, author of e: The Story of a Number"As enticing as a Rubik's Cube, this rigorous and inviting book is a treat to the eyes and mind. The list of contributors is an all-star lineup ready to welcome you into their mathematical rec rooms. Pull up a chair and grab a friend, it's time to be entertained with various mathematical subjects."--Tim Chartier, Davidson College"This entertaining yet rigorous book of recreational mathematical masterpieces presents centuries-old puzzles and new inventions that illustrate the continuing allure of recreational mathematics. The contributions are up-to-date, well illustrated, and startle with unexpected connections. Lay readers and connoisseurs will find imaginative and instructive delights."--Mircea Pitici, editor of The Best Writing on Mathematics"A pleasure to read, this inviting book spans the broad range of topics in recreational mathematics, and the contributors are well-respected names in the field. Probability calculations, Fibonacci numbers, continued fractions, card tricks, strategies in games, and coin-weighing problems are all included, and in ways that reinforce each other."--Philip Straffin, professor emeritus of mathematics, Beloit College"The Mathematics of Various Entertaining Subjects provides a plethora of elegant and surprising mathematical results that were originally motivated by, or found applications in, games and puzzles. The diverse questions, engaging work, and novel, often beautiful solutions make this book an excellent survey and introduction to this kind of analysis."--David Neel, Seattle University