The Circle

by Dave Eggers, Alfred S. Posamentier
The Circle cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Nonfiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 3611
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781633881686
  • Publisher: Prometheus Books
  • Published: 2016-08-23
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Circle takes readers on a journey through the intriguing world of geometry, focusing on the circle and its many remarkable properties. Written in layperson's terms, this book is perfect for those who have found math intimidating, offering a gentle introduction to the discipline through one of its most important elements. The authors begin with a review of basic properties and then delve into the circle's manifestations in geometry, leading to important theorems and constructions. They also explore the circle's role in art and architecture, demonstrating its artistic and practical applications. /n/n Beyond its mathematical significance, The Circle highlights how this fundamental shape can generate unusual and artistic curves, making it a subject of both scientific and aesthetic interest. The book concludes by examining the circle's place on the sphere, bringing the presentation full circle. Whether you're a math enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, this book offers a compelling look at the circle's enduring fascination.

Reviews
Reddit · 2023-01-01
practical 4.25

The book is praised for its ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible and interesting. It is recommended for those looking to appreciate the discipline through one of its most important elements.

This book is highly recommended for anyone looking to dive into the world of geometry. The authors have a knack for making complex concepts understandable and engaging. They start with the basics and gradually build up to more advanced topics, making it suitable for a wide range of readers. The book is particularly praised for its practical approach, focusing on the applications of geometric concepts rather than just theoretical proofs. This makes it a great choice for those who want to see how geometry is used in the real world. The authors' clear and concise writing style, combined with a wealth of examples, makes this book a valuable resource for both students and enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    If math has intimidated you, this may be the ideal book to help you appreciate the discipline through one of its most important elements.

    The authors begin with a brief review of the basic properties of the circle and related figures.

    The Circle by Alfred S. Posamentier and Robert Geretschläger: written in 2016.

Archive.org · 2022-01-26
entertaining 4.75

The book offers an entertaining and accessible exploration of the circle's properties, making it suitable for laypersons. It delves into the historical and mathematical significance of the circle, presenting it in an engaging manner.

This book is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to understand the deeper aspects of the circle. The authors have managed to present complex mathematical concepts in a way that is both accessible and engaging. They cover a wide range of topics, from the basic properties of the circle to its more intricate and fascinating aspects. The historical context provided adds depth to the subject, making it more than just a mathematical treatise. It's a book that will appeal to both casual readers and those with a more serious interest in mathematics. The authors' passion for the subject is evident, and it makes for a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    The circle has fascinated mathematicians since ancient times.

    This entertaining book describes in layperson's terms the many intriguing properties of this fundamental shape.

    As a layperson, I was captivated by the book's exploration of the circle's baffling properties.

Ashleigh Bekkah's Blog · Ashleigh Bekkah · 2018-05-11
mixed 3.50

Ashleigh Bekkah enjoyed the book's premise but found some language repetitive and the plot somewhat thin in places.

Ashleigh Bekkah enjoyed the basis of the book but found some aspects lacking. She mentions that some of the language was repetitive, and the plot was thin in certain areas. Despite these issues, she found the book engaging and thought-provoking, with a premise that resonates with current societal trends.

Quick quotes

    Although I did enjoy the basis of this book, it did fall short in a few places for me.

    Some of the language was quite repetitive, and it was a bit thin in places.

    Despite these issues, she found the book engaging and thought-provoking.

Education Update · 2016-11-01
fascinating 4.50

The book provides a comprehensive exploration of the circle's attributes, making it accessible and engaging for readers. It highlights the circle's significance in various fields and its enduring fascination for mathematicians.

This book is a delightful journey through the world of circles, one of the most fundamental shapes in geometry. The authors have done an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into understandable terms, making it a great read for both beginners and those with a deeper interest in mathematics. They emphasize the circle's ubiquity and its role in different areas of study, from art to engineering. The book is not just informative but also entertaining, with a wealth of examples and historical anecdotes that bring the subject to life. It's a testament to the circle's enduring appeal and its profound impact on human thought and creativity.

Quick quotes

    I have had the pleasure to read, from beginning to end, a new book describing the multiple attributes of that most common of geometric figures, the circle.

    The authors begin with a brief review of the basic properties of the circle and related figures.

    The circle has fascinated mathematicians since ancient times.

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