Odd Words, Even Numbers

Overview

The main purpose of Odd Words, Even Numbers is to stimulate and entertain readers of all ages.
It's a sad fact that standards of numeracy at all levels appear to be in decline in this digital age. This book shows that by treating numeracy as a vital aspect of literacy we might be able to arrest this fall in standards and find joy and intrigue in words and numbers again.

Ian Paterson shows us how we can use the English language to describe a selection of mathematical concepts; by explaining many mathematical games and diversions; and by including a large number of word puzzles and mathematical puzzles, each of which demonstrates the close interrelationship between words and numbers.

It's written especially to appeal to those who who might deny having any interest or expertise in handling or playing with numbers. Indeed, the book requires little mathematical ability of its readers to enable them to derive fun and enjoyment from its pages, particularly if their interest is more inclined towards words and language.

A consistent theme of the book is that in order to be able to communicate effectively - whether in words or numbers - we must learn to communicate clearly and without ambiguity.

Content

Introduction

1 That’s Odd! 

2 Numbers, Numerals, Integers, Digits, Figures, Units And And 

3 Series and Sequences 

4 Spelling Numbers 

5 Silent Letters, Silent Numbers 

6 Number Into Word and Word Into Number 

7 Indivisibility and Divisibility 

8 Matrices 

9 Time and Number Nine 

10 Number Confusion and Large Numbers  10½ Some More Prefixes 

11 Multiplication and Number Eleven 

12 Dozen 

13 Number Thirteen 

14 Some Diversions Involving Words and Numbers 

15 Non-Specific Numbers 

16 Numbers and Words In Disguise 

17 Origins and Categories Of Number Words 

18 Number and Its B 

19 Number or Word?

20 Pyramid Puzzles 

21 Magic Squares 

22 Some Trivial Connections 

23 Numbers Within Numbers, Words Within Words 

24 Reversals and Palindromes 

25 All The Letters and All The Numbers 

26 Fibonacci Sequence

Answers: A to Z

Proofs and Explanations

Glossary

Bibliography

Index

Notes and Workings

The author

Ian Paterson has spent over five-sixths of his life collecting and studying books on recreational maths; mathematical puzzles, games and diversions and the English language. He is the author of best selling book A Dictionary of Colou’ also published by Thorogood.

Review

‘I loved every word. Beautifully written and well researched this is a book for all ages who like a verbal or numerical challenge. An absolute must for those with children or grandchildren who like to be stimulated by words and numbers.’

Brian Goldstein

Author

Ian Paterson

Ian Paterson has spent over five-sixths of his life collecting and studying books on recreational maths; mathematical puzzles, games and diversions and the English language. He is the author of the soon to be released novel Sally Forth also published by Thorogood.