The vibrant recreational mathematics culture of Japan presents puzzles that are often quite different from the classics of western literature. This book is the first collection of original puzzles by Tadao Kitazawa, a prominent Japanese puzzle-maker. These puzzles, which feature arithmetic, geometry, and combinatorics, are novel, creative, and require almost no formal mathematical knowledge. Kitazawa is particularly skillful in subtly modifying existing ideas to explore their potential to the full. For one example, a Tower Square is a Sudoku-like grid, but each row and column contains one 1, two 2s, three 3s, etc. The resulting transformation of the familiar problem is magical, and it is one of a variety of gems in this book. The common denominator is fun!
Author(s): Tadao Kitazawa
Edition: 1
Publisher: American Mathematical Society
Year: 2021
Language: English
Pages: 184
Tags: Arithmetic; Arithmetical; Geometric; Geometrical; Combinatorics; Combinatorial; Mathematics; Puzzles;
Contents
Preface
An Interview with Toshihiro Kawamata
Introduction
Chapter 1. General Arithmetic
Chapter 2. Digits and Numbers
Chapter 3. Magic Configurations
Chapter 4. Latin Squares
Chapter 5. Tower Squares
Chapter 6. General Geometry
Chapter 7. Symmetry
Chapter 8. Constructions and Dissections
Chapter 9. Patterns and Configurations
Chapter 10. Prefabricated Models
Chapter 11. Polyominoes
Chapter 12. Matchsticks
Chapter 13. Paper Cutting and Folding
Chapter 14. General Combinatorics
Chapter 15. Algorithms
Chapter 16. Training Camp for Rookies
Chapter 17. Energetic but Timid Rookies
Chapter 18. Intergalactic Rook Convention
Chapter 19. Knight School
Chapter 20. Knights at Peace and War
