How to Free Your Inner Mathematician
Notes on Mathematics and Life
Susan D'Agostino
Reviews and Awards
"This is a popular book for those who want to learn about mathematics and mathematical thinking but have no mathematical background...Detailed solutions to the problems are provided" - Roman Murawski, zbMATH
"In an era of excellent books about mathematics for a popular audience, this book stands out, for its spirit, imagination, and liveliness." - Paul Campbell, Beloit College, The Hastings Center Report
"I never knew I could find math so entertaining! I loved not just bending my mind around concepts I can actually use in my life but learning about some of the mathematicians and history behind them. D'Agostino's clever illustrations are a big plus!" - Nancy Lord, former Alaska writer laureate & author of Fishcamp and Beluga Days
"Marvelous mathematical meditations. D'Agostino leads the reader to discover their mathematical selves through self-contained explorations. Appropriate for mathematical novices, enthusiasts, professionals, or anyone willing to reflect on the truth, beauty, and joy of mathematics." - Jennifer J. Quinn, President Elect of Mathematical Association of America 2021-2022, Professor of Mathematics, UW Tacoma, & author of Proofs That Really Count: The Art of Combinatorial Proof
"In life, as in mathematics, a fresh approach is sometimes warranted. D'Agostino intertwines life's lessons with those gleaned from a stunning array of mathematical gems to forge a vision of mathematics that is both personal and universal." - Rhonda Hughes, Professor Emerita of Mathematics, Bryn Mawr College
"This delightful book contains precious nuggets of mathematics rendered accessible to most by connecting them to real life and engaging the reader in artfully paced steps. What is truly unique about this book, however, is the way D'Agostino infuses it with her humanity, making it as fun and instructive as it is wise." - Christophe Gole, Smith College Professor of Mathematics & Statistics
"Few things are as beautiful, fascinating and revealing about life and important to its pursuit as mathematics. This elegantly written book makes mathematics alive and accessible, without compromise, with charm, clarity, grace, and wit. This book should fall into the hands not only of all students, but all adults. Readers will not only be grateful, but will smile along the way." - Leon Botstein, Bard College President, American Symphony Orchestra Conductor, & author of Jefferson's Children: Education and the Promise of American Culture
"This book is a great entry point for the curious student wondering about the world around them, a wonderful reference guide for the parent, a reminder for the working engineer, or an enjoyable read for anyone seeking to "update their understanding." It reminds us how elegantly math helps make sense of the world - and that success is in the eye of the beholder!" - Joseph J. Helble, Provost and Professor of Engineering, Dartmouth College
"I could describe the essays in this collection as inspiring and motivational, but that wouldn't quite communicate the validation I felt reading them... [the book] draws upon the theorems, applications, and history of mathematics to inspire lessons and advice for us along our mathematical (and other) pursuits. Delightful illustrations and an (honestly) enjoyable exercise accompany each essay. This book will appeal to aspiring mathematicians at any career stage, but its most important audience may be the latent mathematicians who have been discouraged from the discipline but are open to a fresh invitation." - Jason Cory Brunson, Research Assistant Professor, Laboratory for Systems Medicine, University of Florida, New Books Network
