Nature’s Numbers: The Unreal Reality Of Mathematics (Science Masters Series)

"It appears to us that the universe is structured in a deeply mathematical way. Falling bodies fall with predictable accelerations. Eclipses can be accurately forecast centuries in advance. Nuclear power plants generate electricity according to well-known formulas. But those examples are the tip of the iceberg. In "Nature's Numbers", Ian Stewart presents many more, each charming in its own way...Stewart admirably captures compelling and accessible mathematical ideas along with the pleasures of thinking of them. He writes with clarity and percision. Those who enjoy this sort of thing will love this book".
-- "Los Angeles Times"

"First-rate popular mathematics writing...Stewart achieves what other popular mathematics writers merely strive for: an accurate, informative portrayal of contemporary mathematics without a single equation in sight...[If] someone you know wants to know what mathematics really is, buy them a copy of "Nature's Numbers""
-- "Nature"

"Stewart is the soul of clarity...[a] winning formula for the science shelf".
-- "Booklist"