Alex through the Looking Glass by Alex Bellos

“Alex through the Looking Glass” is a book written by Alex Bellos, a British writer and broadcaster who specializes in mathematics and science. The book is a collection of essays, each exploring a different mathematical concept or idea.

The title “Alex through the Looking Glass” is a reference to Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking-Glass,” the sequel to “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Like Carroll’s book, Bellos’ book invites readers to explore a strange and curious world, where familiar concepts are turned upside down and new perspectives are gained.

Bellos covers a wide range of topics in his book, from the history of zero to the geometry of soap bubbles, from the mathematics of juggling to the patterns in snowflakes. Each essay is written in a clear and engaging style, with plenty of examples and illustrations to help the reader understand the concepts.

One of the strengths of “Alex through the Looking Glass” is the way it connects mathematics to the real world. Bellos shows how mathematical ideas are used in everything from music to sports to art, and he emphasizes the creativity and beauty of mathematics.

Overall, “Alex through the Looking Glass” is a fascinating and enjoyable read for anyone interested in mathematics or science. It offers a fresh perspective on familiar ideas and introduces readers to new and surprising concepts.