"… eminently readable and thought-provoking book. Lines is that rare author who conscientiously respects his claim that little or no prior knowledge of mathematics is required. All that is necessary is accepting that letters can stand for numbers and an understanding of the basic arithmetical operations plus the use of signs and indices. A useful introductory chapter covers even these basic points in an intelligible way for those who may have forgotten all their schoolwork. … Besides intelligent laypersons, the book should appeal to many mathematically literate scientists and engineers."-New Scientist, Sept. 1990"The book is really well written and will be a value-for-money addition to the libraries of problem solvers everywhere."-Aslib Book List, Nov. 90"It is written in a lively and readable style. As Asimov confirmed: 'Simply the best book on numbers I ever read.'"-R. Carchon, Physicalia, No. 2, Feb.1991
