Discovering Numbers

A counting book that shows the numbers one to ten in English, French and Cree.

The essays in this collection are attempts to arrive at a few new truths about writers and their writings based on novel evidence that has been either found by chance or subjected to unusual forms of analysis. The lucky finds include letters by Wole Soyinka, Derek Walcott and Sarah Gertrude Millin. Among the texts examined are Julius Nyerere's Kiswahili translation of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, some love poems by Dennis Brutus, and a novel and film by Sembene Ousmane. In addition there are several statistical studies that reveal salient patterns in the criticism of anglophone African literature and in the teaching of that literature in South African university English departments. The brain drain of African writers and scholars is also discussed.

Discovering Abstract Algebra takes an Inquiry-Based Learning approach to the subject, leading students to discover for themselves its main themes and techniques. Concepts are introduced conversationally through extensive examples and student investigation before being formally defined. Students will develop skills in carefully making statements and writing proofs, while they simultaneously build a sense of ownership over the ideas and results. The book has been extensively tested and reinforced at points of common student misunderstanding or confusion, and includes a wealth of exercises at a variety of levels. The contents were deliberately organized to follow the recommendations of the MAA's 2015 Curriculum Guide. The book is ideal for a one- or two-semester course in abstract algebra, and will prepare students well for graduate-level study in algebra.

Who were the five strangest mathematicians in history? What are the ten most interesting numbers? Jam-packed with thought-provoking mathematical mysteries, puzzles, and games, Wonders of Numbers will enchant even the most left-brained of readers. Hosted by the quirky Dr. Googol--who resides on a remote island and occasionally collaborates with Clifford Pickover--Wonders of Numbers focuses on creativity and the delight of discovery. Here is a potpourri of common and unusual number theory problems of varying difficulty--each presented in brief chapters that convey to readers the essence of the problem rather than its extraneous history. Peppered throughout with illustrations that clarify the problems, Wonders of Numbers also includes fascinating "math gossip." How would we use numbers to communicate with aliens? Check out Chapter 30. Did you know that there is a Numerical Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? You'll find it in Chapter 45. From the beautiful formula of India's most famous mathematician to the Leviathan number so big it makes a trillion look small, Dr. Googol's witty and straightforward approach to numbers will entice students, educators, and scientists alike to pick up a pencil and work a problem.