Figuring the Joy of Numbers  (English, Paperback, Shakuntala Devi)

Figuring: The Joy Of Numbers by Shakuntala Devi, is a book that teaches readers a series of computing shortcuts, which will not only reduce calculation time, but also help to develop an interest for the subject of mathematics.

Summary Of The Book

In Figuring: The Joy Of Numbers, renowned mathematician Shakuntala Devi, teaches readers about the wonders which can be sought by utilizing easy calculation methods. Devi’s book will help readers calculate faster and easier

This book will teach readers how to proceed forward with different types of challenging calculations, with the aim of increasing precision as well as speed, without compromising the correctness of the result. In order to understand the techniques prescribed in the text, readers are required to have a basic knowledge of arithmetic. Devi states that initially the problems might seem too complicated or out of reach, but with time and practice readers will definitely acquire the skill to solve mathematic problems in an expedient and precise manner. More importantly, readers will eventually be able to carry out large calculations in their heads, without the use of calculators or pencil and paper.

The text contains fifteen chapters, which covers the basic operations involved in mathematics. It covers topics such as Digits, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Highest Common Factor, Percentages, Interests, and Discounts, Fractions, Squares, Decimals, and Cube Roots. Devi has also included special chapters such The Calendar, Special Numbers, and Tricks/ Puzzles, which will definitely peak readers’ curiosity.

Figuring: The Joy Of Numbers, was published in 2012, by Orient Paperbacks.

About Shakuntala Devi

Shakuntala Devi, was a mathematical prodigy, nicknamed the “human computer”.

She has also authored More Puzzles, Puzzles To Puzzle You, Astrology for You, Book Of Numbers, Super Memory: It Can Be Yours, and Mathability: Awaken the Math Genius in Your Child.

Devi’s ability to manipulate numbers was recognized by her parents at the age of three. Her ability to calculate large sums and memory capacity were demonstrated at the University of Mysore at a tender age of 6, and at Annamalai University when she was 8. In 1977, at Southern Methodist University, in the U.S. she was able to calculate the cube root of a very large number in just fifty seconds, in a competition against a computer. Similarly, in 1982, Devi’s name was entered in the Guinness Book Of Records for multiplying two 13-digit numbers in just 28 seconds. Devi was married to Paritosh Banerji, and together they had a daughter. Devi passed away on April 21, 2013, due to respiratory problems.