The Boy Who Loved Math

The Boy Who Loved Math
The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos

The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdős is a children's picture book written by Deborah Heiligman and illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Published on June 25, 2013, this book introduces young readers to the life of Paul Erdős, a renowned Hungarian mathematician known for his eccentric lifestyle and collaborative spirit.

The narrative follows Erdős from his childhood, where he exhibited extraordinary mathematical abilities—such as calculating the number of seconds someone had lived at just four years old—to his adult life as a globe-trotting mathematician. Unlike many mathematicians who work in isolation, Erdős traveled extensively, collaborating with peers and contributing to numerous mathematical publications. His unique character traits and deep love for numbers are portrayed through lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, making complex mathematical concepts accessible to children.

The book emphasizes themes of curiosity, collaboration, and the joy of mathematics. It presents Erdős not just as a genius but as a beloved figure among his peers, affectionately referred to as "Uncle Paul." The illustrations complement the text by visually expressing mathematical ideas, enhancing the reader's understanding and engagement with the subject matter.

Critics have praised The Boy Who Loved Math for its ability to inspire interest in mathematics among young readers. It has received several accolades, including being named a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2013 and a New York Times Notable Children's Book of 2013. The book is recommended for children aged 6 and up and is noted for its potential to spark curiosity in math enthusiasts.

In summary, The Boy Who Loved Math serves as both an introduction to the world of mathematics and a celebration of Paul Erdős's remarkable life, making it an engaging read for children and educators alike.

Author: Deborah Heiligman

Deborah Heiligman is the acclaimed author of numerous books for children and teens, including the picture book The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdős. Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Heiligman grew up with a love for reading and writing. She majored in religious studies at Brown University and later embarked on a writing career, working for publications like Scholastic News Explorer before becoming a freelance writer and author. Heiligman has written over 30 books spanning various genres, from picture books to young adult novels, both fiction and nonfiction. Her works have received prestigious awards and recognition, including a Printz Honor, the YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award, and a National Book Award finalist nomination for her biography Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith. Heiligman currently resides in New York City with her husband, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jonathan Weiner, and their two sons.

Book Details:

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Format: Paperback
Print length: 48 pages
Dimensions: 21.34 x 0.76 x 26.04 cm
Reading age: 5-8 years old
Publication date: 25 Jun. 2013
ISBN: 978-1596433076

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Why is learning about Paul Erdos important for maths students?

Learning about Paul Erdős is important for math students for several reasons:

Inspiration and Collaboration: Erdős exemplified the spirit of collaboration in mathematics, having co-authored over 1,500 papers with more than 1,000 collaborators throughout his life. His nomadic lifestyle and dedication to working with others highlight the value of teamwork in solving complex mathematical problems, encouraging students to engage with peers and share ideas.
Mathematical Contributions: Erdős made significant contributions across various fields, including number theory, combinatorics, and graph theory. His work on the prime number theorem and the probabilistic method has laid foundational concepts that are crucial for advanced mathematical studies. Understanding his contributions can deepen students' appreciation for the interconnectedness of different mathematical disciplines.
Unique Approach to Mathematics: Erdős had a distinctive perspective on mathematics, viewing it as a beautiful and elegant pursuit. He famously referred to a hypothetical "Book" that contained the most elegant proofs for all mathematical truths. This philosophical approach can inspire students to appreciate the aesthetic aspects of mathematics and strive for elegance in their own work.
Overcoming Challenges: Erdős's life story also serves as a lesson in resilience and passion. Despite facing personal challenges, including anti-Semitism and a non-traditional upbringing, he remained dedicated to his love for mathematics. His journey can motivate students to pursue their interests passionately, regardless of societal expectations or obstacles.

In summary, studying Paul Erdős not only enriches students' understanding of mathematical concepts but also encourages collaboration, creativity, and perseverance in their mathematical endeavors.