Hard-to-Solve Math Puzzles [Paperback]

Derrick Niederman (Author)

Book Description

Series: Mensa

Put your mathematical thinking cap on--because even though these puzzles are toughies, they take insight and brainwork to solve, not a knowledge of calculus or linear algebra or any other kind of advanced math. Consider for a moment:
* How can you divide a regular pentagon into five identical pentagonal shapes?
* What is the only decade in American history to contain four prime-numbered years?
* What three right triangles with integer sides have areas numerically equal to twice their perimeters?
Don't worry if the answers don't spring to mind immediately; you'll have plenty of company. Compute without calculators; study the "survival of the splittest" by arithmetically analyzing a little amoeba reproduction; and investigate whether or not a rich man's children are getting a "square deal" with their inheritance. Just don't give up, because you'll have a lot of satisfaction when you figure them out.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Newton Center, MA

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Sterling (June 30, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0806958693
• ISBN-13: 978-0806958699
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,045,870 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous Puzzle Book (I hope this isn't out-of-print), July 22, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: Hard-to-Solve Math Puzzles (Paperback)

As an avid collector of puzzle books, I can honestly say that *Hard-to-Solve Math Puzzles* by Derrick Niederman is one of the best puzzle/Mensa-type books I have come across. What is unique about this book is that this book concentrates on clever mathematical puzzles requiring only a high school-level of math knowledge.

Most other puzzle books on the market: mix math questions with other types of puzzles (like word puzzles), require knowledge of math that is way too advanced for most run-of-the-mill puzzle fans (e.g, math olympiad type books or books requiring university-level math), or avoids math altogether. Niederman's book is focused in on math puzzles that are challenging but doable for most puzzle fans.

Another thing that I liked about this book is that the problems are truly challenging (but do not require advanced math knowledge). Niederman's problems usually require more insights and sophistication than comparable problems by other respected puzzle makers.

Finally, this book is endorsed by Mensa, a plus for people who want a seal of approval.