From the Publisher
Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
“In this brief, accessible foray, popular math/science writer Berlinski breathes life into an ancient mathematician and the world of axioms and theorems he createda geometric world that became the basis for much of modern math, from analytic geometry to the idea of curved space-time
. Even the most math-averse [will] be enthralled by Berlinski’s rich, vibrant language
. Berlinski’s book succeeds not only as a history of geometry but also as an exploration of the power of ideas, masterfully replacing cold abstraction with humor and humanity.”
Booklist, Starred Review
“In writing at once geometrically precise and disarmingly conversational, Berlinski explores the imposing edifice that Euclid erected on a foundation of just five deceptively simple axioms
. An impressively concise distillation of the wizardry that transforms points, lines, and planes into sheer genius.”
Kirkus Reviews
“A playful yet deep excursus through Euclid’s Elements, from veteran mathematician Berlinski. It is a pleasure to follow the author as he grasps the logistical tail of Euclid’s mathematics and follows it to this day
. It is a profound investigation, as math was synthesized and refined and Euclid broke out with his axiomatic system
as a way of seeing, a way of life
. The author’s storytelling is clear, crisp and emotive, and he brings Euclid’s little-known life alive.”