This book takes a novel look at the topics of school mathematics--arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and calculus. In this stroll on the mathematical seashore we hope to find, quoting Newton, "...a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than ordinary..." This book assembles a collection of mathematical pebbles that are important as well as beautiful.

Introduction I. BRIDGING THE GAP 1. The Ancient Fractions 2. Greek Gifts 3. The Music of the Ratios II. THE SHAPE OF THINGS 4. Tubeland 5. The Calculating Eye III. THE GREAT ART 6. Algebra Rules 7. The Root of the Problem 8. Symmetry Without Fear 9. The Magic Mirror IV. A SMOOTHER PEBBLE 10. On the Shoulders of Giants 11. Six-Minute Calculus 12. Roller-Coaster Science Glossary References Index

Donald C. BensonProfessor of Mathematics, University of California, Davis (Emeritus)

"...an enlightening book and a pleasure to read."--Choice |k No