《书目》(Booklist)书评

Thompson has rescued three generations of math students from the vexations of calculus. Now Gardner has applied his acclaimed gifts as a science writer in revising Thompson's classic work, writing new chapters on functions and limits, updating symbols, and adding a delightful appendix of recreational problems. The revisions naturally ease the way for frustrated students looking for help with problems. But the title still does not do justice to this improved work, which provides more than how-to assistance. In addition to helping students reach the right answers, this book opens new mental vistas for readers previously afraid of or hostile to higher mathematics. So while many readers will be thankfully digging out useful tricks of calculation, others will be marveling at the discoveries that first made possible a mathematics of change. So long as students struggle with advanced math, looking for quick answers or deeper insights, public libraries will see demand for this volume--especially around exam time. --Bryce Christensen