Curves for the Mathematically Curious: An Anthology of the Unpredictable, Historical, Beautiful, and Romantic

“Havil has done a wonderful job of choosing ten of the most intriguing curves in mathematics—some are famous, some are infamous, and some will likely be new to many readers. I enjoyed this book very much.”—David S. Richeson, author of Euler’s Gem: The Polyhedron Formula and the Birth of Topology

“Julian Havil enlivens the mathematics of curves with historical context and charming anecdotes, from Galileo’s quest for the engineering principle of the arch to Picasso’s curvaceous drawing of a dog.”—Lynn Gamwell, author of Mathematics and Art: A Cultural History

“A delightful collection of plane curves with engaging historical commentary. The curves range from classical to neoclassical to modern. Some are mainly of theoretical interest, but many have practical applications. All are fascinating.”—Avner Ash, coauthor of Elliptic Tales: Curves, Counting, and Number Theory

“With his engaging style of writing, Havil takes ten mathematical curves and describes their properties and the interesting histories behind them. Curves for the Mathematically Curious is an important book.”—Allan McRobie, author of The Seduction of Curves: The Lines of Beauty That Connect Mathematics, Art, and the Nude

“With this charming collection of episodes, Havil shows that the study of curves is far from one-dimensional. Ten carefully selected curves provide focus for chapters that abound with mathematical and historical substance as well as practical application. The featured curves serve as a cabinet of wonders for reading straight through or dipping into for a rich treat.”—Frank A. Farris, author of Creating Symmetry: The Artful Mathematics of Wallpaper Patterns