A Pathway Into Number Theory 2nd edition by Burn, R. P. (1996) Paperback

by R.P. Burn

A sequence of exercises which will lead readers from quite simple number work to the point where they can prove algebraically the classical results of elementary number theory for themselves.

Genres: Number Theory, Mathematics

Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

Reviews

[Kbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll say right away that this is a slog of a read, and I only made it through the first two chapters.

That said -- I was quite intrigued with the teaching approach, I wish there were more books written in this style.

It works roughly like a series of little number puzzles that gives you glimpses of underlying patterns, and then nudges you to uncover, and then prove those patterns. It's hard mental work for sure (and it seems like my brain cells have atrophied to the point where I'm not able to plug away at it for very long.) But whatever you pick up sticks around for longer; and there's the little joy of discovery every time you break through each puzzle. Good stuff, but recommended only when you have some brain cycles to spare.

[Liquidlasagna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm pleased to report there is a new edition of R. Burn's A Pathway into Number Theory, a book that takes readers quickly and painlessly from simple facts about whole numbers to the wonders of the quadratic forms, Pell's equation and Minkowski's theorem.
Ian Stewart