Entertaining and illustrative Puzzles for the Beginner

"Entertaining mathematical puzzles" by Martin Gartner is collection of rather easy math puzzles of diverse mathematical topics. Only an elementary knowledge of math and the will to resist looking up the answers before completing the problems.

Clear and concise comments at the beginning of each section explain the nature and importance of the math needed to solve each puzzle. A carefully explained solution follows each problem. In many cases, all that is needed to solve a problem is the ability to think logically and clearly, to be on the alert for surprising angles or hidden factors.

Here is an example of what you can find inside this book:

"If three cats catch three rats in three minutes, how many cats will catch 100 rats in 100 minutes?"

If you like more challenging pure mathematical teasers and puzzles, you may want to try "Challenging mathematical teasers" by J. A. H. Hunter.

A WAY TO GET WARMED UP FOR THE THINKING WORLD

I give this book five stars. Though the problems and puzzles were created several years ago, it introduces or, at least, reintroduces the reader to humorous and thought-provoking examples highlighting how intuitive and counterintuitive processes can collide into one another.Martin Gardner's witty writing style makes this book a pleasant pathway to the realms of logic. Neat and concise with its stories and challenges throughout and with solutions at the very end, the book is a very ideal read, especially if you are a passenger with a very long trip ahead and who needs good quality entertainment that is also educational.

Mathematical problems for all ages with different topics.

Entertaining Mathematical Problems by Martin Gardner is a great book for all ages. This book has over 100 problems in sections ranging from topology to games. Some of the problems are simple to many, but there are some that require thought to do. Answers are included on the back. Any math lover will surely enjoy this book.
Paul Raff (Northwestern_Wildcat@ibm.net