This book uses fascinating tales from Greek Mythology as the background for introducing mathematics puzzles to the general public. A background in high school mathematics will be ample preparation for using this book, and it should appeal to anyone who enjoys puzzles and recreational mathematics.
An engaging narrative introduces core combinatorial concepts, making it suitable for undergraduates at any level. Early emphasis on the Principle of Inclusion-Exclusion and a unified treatment of permutations highlight the cohesive development of ideas. The textbook's conversational style enhances independent study, making complex topics more accessible and easier to understand. Solomon Golomb's insights and illustrative examples further enrich the learning experience, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of combinatorics.
Featuring 200 unique mathematical puzzles with original solutions, this collection pays tribute to Nobuyuki "Nob" Yoshigahara, a prominent figure in the world of puzzles. A graduate of the Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yoshigahara was known for his inventive mechanical puzzles and authored over 80 books on the subject. His contributions to the field earned him the prestigious Sam Loyd Award in 2003, recognizing his significant impact on the community of games and puzzles.