The No.1 Book of Numbers

Exploring the Meaning and Magic of Numbers

Ruth Binney

$27.99

Hardback

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English

RYDON
01 May 2019

Mathematics & Sciences; Philosophy of mathematics

Why is 7 such a lucky number and 13 so unlucky? Why does a jury traditionally have '12 good men and true', and why are there 24 hours in the day and 60 seconds in a minute? This fascinating new book explores the world of numbers from pin numbers to book titles, and from the sixfold shape of snowflakes to the way our roads, houses and telephone numbers are designated in fact and fiction. Using the numbers themselves as its starting point it investigates everything from the origins and meaning of counting in early civilizations to numbers in proverbs, myths and nursery rhymes and the ancient 'science' of numerology. It also focuses on the quirks of odds and evens, primes, on numbers in popular sports - and much, much more.

So whether you've ever wondered why Heinz has 57 varieties, why 999 is the UK's emergency phone number but 911 is used in America, why Coco Chanel chose No. 5 for her iconic perfume, or how the title Catch 22 was chosen, then this is the book for you. Dip in anywhere and you'll find that numbers are not just for adding and measuring but can be hugely entertaining and informative whether you're buying a diamond or choosing dinner from the menu.

AUTHOR: Ruth Binney has been fascinated by the world and the way it works since childhood. She holds a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University and has been involved in countless publications during her career as an editor. She is a best-selling author, having published numerous book on the countryside, folklore and mythology, gardening and cooking, and has made frequent BBC radio broadcasts. Ruth lives in Yeovil, Somerset.

By: Ruth Binney
Imprint: RYDON
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 205mm, Width: 158mm,
ISBN: 9781910821176
ISBN 10: 1910821179
Pages: 208
Publication Date: 01 May 2019
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Unspecified

Ruth Binney has been fascinated by the world and the way it works since childhood. She holds a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University and has been involved in countless publications during her career as an editor. She is a best-selling author, having published numerous book on the countryside, folklore and mythology, gardening and cooking, and has made frequent BBC radio broadcasts. Ruth lives in Yeovil, Somerset.