most recent 30 from http://mathoverflow.net 2013-05-25T14:19:35Z http://mathoverflow.net/feeds/user/1507 http://www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.5/rdf http://mathoverflow.net/questions/8609/favorite-popular-math-book/8642#8642 Tristan Sandler 2009-12-12T02:19:02Z 2009-12-12T02:19:02Z

<p><strong>Title:</strong> Everything and More: A Compact History of Infinity</p> <p><strong>Author:</strong> David Foster Wallace</p> <p><strong>Short description:</strong> History of the idea of infinity, mostly leading up to Cantor's set theory ideas. It's been awhile since I've read this but I would say the mathematics is pretty decent for popular writing and the writing is really enjoyable if you like Wallace's style (and maddening if you can't stand him, I'm sure). This is the kind of math book you could get for someone who enjoys serious literature.</p> <p>No prior knowledge is necessary, but the math-phobic could struggle.</p>