Cunningham,
Kevin. Zero. Morgan Reynolds 2013 64p $27.45 ISBN 978-1-59935-39-2 elem/ms series: The Biography of Numbers Nonfiction
E-BN
The concept of nothing did not develop
until man started building complex societies with a need to record quantities: how much
property, how far, how heavy, or how much profit. The
first idea of nothing was probably put forth by the Egyptians who used numbers
to design the pyramids.
However, it wasn’t until an Indian astronomer born in 598 CE finished his scientific masterpiece that zero was discussed as a number. This idea of zero and looking at numbers as an abstract concept allowed the development of the concept of positive and negative numbers. In 1200, Leonardo Pisano Bigollo published a book on mathematics that was based on nine Indian figures: 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, and the sign 0. This changed Western mathematics. Fibonacci’s practical examples of this system revolutionized commerce. As the author says, “the concept of zero made today’s science and technology possible.”
The inclusion of photographs, several lists on where to obtain more information, and a glossary/index makes this a useful research tool. The inclusion of web sites for youngsters is also important in school classrooms today. Up-to-date photographs and web sites further enhance the information in the book.
The flow and balance of the text and
full-color
visuals are integrated to present a very stimulating book for young and
reluctant readers.
This book is one in the Biography of
Numbers series. The series consists
of four books at this time. The
general theme of the series is mathematics. The books include: Pi, Zero,
Measurement, and Numerals.
Summary: The concept of nothing did not develop until man started building
complex societies. The first idea about nothing was
probably put forth by the Egyptians. Without
the concept of zero, today’s science and technology would not be possible.
Mathematics,
History of Mathematics --Linda
McNeil
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