Mathematical Puzzles, for Beginners and Enthusiasts
This is a delightful collection of head-scratchers all described in an easy-going format. Puzzles (all of them are word puzzles, and all answers appear at the back) are grouped as algebraic, geometric, easy-arithmetical, combinatoric, puzzles about integers, etc.; none are trivial, some are extremely challenging, and they all teach some point about inference or mathematical method. In the preface, the author writes, "Some of these puzzles are old favorites...
There is little that I need say by way of introduction to this collection of puzzles. They are all strictly "mathematical," though the mathematical knowledge necessary for solving them is, in all but a handful of cases, elementary.
Following the content of the standard school curriculum, this book presents in 418 problems and diversions the basic ideas of arithmetic. Averages, fractions, decimals, percent, powers and roots, etc. Shortcuts, checking methods, also introduced in this enjoyable format. 120 illustrations.
George J. Summers creates 50 new puzzles for fans eager to test their logic. The puzzles range in difficulty from the relatively simple examples at the beginning of the book to others that are tricky, complex and subtle enough to the test the expert.
Solve murder problems and robberies, see which fishermen are liars and how a blind man can identify color — purely by reasoning! Hours of mind-strengthening entertainment.
