Asok Kumar Mallik

Hardcover 

163 pages

IISc Press

Step away from the rigid constraints of traditional textbooks and embark on a captivating journey through the universe of numbers, shapes, and the brilliant minds that discovered them. This rare gem of popular mathematics offers a refreshing departure from dry formulas, worked examples, and strict school syllabi. Instead of simply dictating rules, it breathes life into the subject by arousing curiosity, uncovering hidden connections between seemingly distinct branches of math, and revealing the rich historical tapestry behind the concepts we take for granted today. Whether you are a high-school student, an undergraduate, or simply a curious reader, this book translates complex ideas into accessible, engaging discoveries that will change the way you look at mathematics.

Across seventeen meticulously crafted chapters, you will explore the profound mysteries hidden within basic arithmetic and whole numbers before venturing into the fascinating realms of fractions, algebraic counting, and complex infinite series. The journey continues through the captivating history of the world's most famous constant, pi, the vibrant evolution of trigonometry, and the elegant relationship between statics and Euclidean geometry. Along the way, illuminating historical anecdotes are woven seamlessly into the text, proving that mathematics is not a static set of rules, but a deeply human endeavor that evolved gradually over centuries of trial and error.

Far more than a collection of theorems, this is a story of human triumph. The journey culminates in a deeply inspiring final chapter dedicated entirely to the struggles and monumental achievements of distinguished women mathematicians across different countries and eras a brilliant tribute especially directed toward young female students and their parents. Perfect for anyone who has ever wondered about the "why" and "how" behind the numbers, this book promises to transform quiet curiosity into a lifelong affection for the magic of mathematics.

About author 

Asok Kumar Mallik retired as Professor of Mechanical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur in 2009.

His other books published by IISc Press include (1) Popular Problems and Puzzles in Mathematics, (2) The Story of Numbers and (3) Geometry - Just beyond School Texts.