Mathematics: A Practical Odyssey [with CengageNOW, Personal Tutor, and Student Book Companion Site Printed Access Code] : Book Review

Mathematics: The Science of Patterns by John Tabak is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the world of mathematics. This book, written by the esteemed mathematician and science popularizer, delves into various mathematical concepts and their applications.

What sets this book apart is Tabak's ability to present complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner. He takes the reader on a journey through the fascinating history of mathematics, tracing its origins from ancient civilizations to the present day. With a skillful hand, Tabak explains the fundamental principles and theories of mathematics, making them understandable even to those with limited mathematical knowledge.

A unique feature of this book is its emphasis on the practical applications of mathematical concepts. Tabak shows us that mathematics is not just an abstract field of study, but a powerful tool that is used in various scientific fields, engineering, finance, and everyday life. By highlighting the real-world relevance of mathematics, the author helps readers develop a deeper appreciation for its importance.

Tabak's writing style is engaging and conversational, making the book an enjoyable read. He uses examples, anecdotes, and thought-provoking puzzles to illustrate the concepts being discussed, capturing the reader's attention and fostering a greater understanding of the topic at hand.

In conclusion, Mathematics: The Science of Patterns is a highly informative and engaging book that serves as an excellent introduction to the world of mathematics. Whether you are a mathematics enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding or a beginner seeking to establish a strong foundation, this book is an invaluable resource. John Tabak's passion for the subject shines through, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and power of mathematics.

What are readers saying?

The book "Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction" by Timothy Gowers has garnered a range of opinions from readers on the popular website Goodreads. Some reviewers found the book to be insightful and engaging, while others felt that it failed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and lacked depth.

One common praise for the book was its accessibility. Many readers appreciated Gowers' ability to explain complex mathematical concepts in a clear and understandable manner. They found his writing style engaging, with clear explanations and examples provided throughout. This made the book valuable to those seeking a basic understanding of mathematics.

However, there were also several critical reviews. Some readers felt that the book lacked depth and only provided a superficial overview of the topics. They wished that Gowers would have explored certain concepts in more detail and provided more comprehensive explanations.

Another recurring criticism was that the book assumed a certain level of prior mathematical knowledge. Some novice readers felt that the book was not as beginner-friendly as they had hoped, struggling to understand certain sections. They believed that more contextual information and background knowledge would have made the book more accessible to those with little to no mathematical background.

In addition, a few readers found the examples used in the book to be overly abstract and disconnected from real-life applications. They desired more practical examples to enhance their understanding of the mathematical concepts being discussed.

#Mathematics #BookRecommendations #ReadingList