Book Club

What is one interesting attribute about yourself that many people do not know?

Since I was born deaf, I can communicate using ASL, read lips and pick up body languages faster than people think. Because of this, I can empathize and help people when I can.

Why are you involved with Roots?

I am involved with Roots as I want to be connected with people who have different mindsets so I can be exposed and grow. Roots is a space for myself to express how I view the world but also see the world through someone else’s eyes. Math is a path of learning how people think.

What is one interesting attribute about yourself that many people do not know?

I love sailing and have done lots of open ocean sailing.

Why are you involved with Roots?

I’m involved with roots because I’ve made a career out of mathematics and want to continue learning new areas of math and seeing things I’ve learned in the past in a new light and to go on that journey with fellow math lovers that help me expand my perspectives.

What is one interesting attribute about yourself that many people do not know?

I have a large ape index, which is the ratio of an individual’s arm span to their height, and I use this advantage in a recreational sand volleyball league and as an amateur rock climber.

Why are you involved with Roots?

I love Roots because it brings like-minded individuals together to talk about fun and interesting math concepts. It is also a robust community centered around Dave Kester, the owner and founder of Coaching Actuaries.

What is one interesting attribute about yourself that many people do not know?

If I wasn’t an actuary I would be a dietitian! I love learning about how to use food as medicine and how it can drastically improve symptoms of illness & disease.

Why are you involved with Roots?

I joined Roots to meet other math enthusiasts. I keep returning for the community, shared perspectives and getting deep! Also, I want to encourage others considering a career in math.

In this season, we had the unique opportunity to dive into The Voice of Math, a book written by our own Dave Kester. This work explores the deep connection between the evolution of numbers and the human experience, focusing on the struggles inherent in learning and appreciating mathematics. Rather than just celebrating success, The Voice of Math highlights the challenges we face with numbers and how overcoming those obstacles shapes our understanding. The book calls for a mindset shift—not just to do math, but to appreciate its difficulty and the growth it inspires.

In The Wonder Book of Geometry, David Acheson brings the world of geometry to life with accessible yet intellectually stimulating puzzles and insights. His approach shows that geometry is not just about shapes and angles; it’s about seeing the broader nature of mathematics itself. Acheson distills the subject into engaging problems that reveal the inherent beauty of geometry, appealing to both beginners and seasoned math lovers. As he notes, “with geometry, it is possible to see something of the whole nature and spirit of mathematics at its best, at almost any age, within just half an hour of starting.”

Mathematics for Human Flourishing is not your typical math book—it’s a powerful exploration of how math can shape us into better human beings. Francis Su masterfully intertwines philosophical reflections, personal stories, and the transformative nature of math, revealing how mathematical thinking nurtures virtues like creativity, perseverance, and community. Particularly touching is Su’s correspondence with Christopher, a friend serving time in prison, whose experience with math highlights its ability to inspire growth, even in the most challenging circumstances. This book reminds us that math is much more than numbers; it is a path to personal and collective flourishing.

Infinite Powers takes us into the fascinating world of calculus, blending historical context with practical applications to show how this branch of math shapes our understanding of the universe. Steven Strogatz unpacks the story of calculus, revealing how it manages change, movement, and complexity—concepts at the heart of everything from physics to economics. Rather than focusing solely on solving equations, Strogatz invites us to appreciate the “why” behind calculus, making the subject more than just a set of difficult problems. Through this lens, calculus becomes a tool for seeing the underlying beauty in how the world works.

We began our journey with William Dunham’s Journey through Genius, a tour of some of the most iconic theorems in the history of mathematics. Dunham presents these theorems as works of art, sharing not only their mathematical significance but also the stories behind their discovery. He introduces us to the brilliant minds who developed these theorems and sets the stage by explaining the historical and cultural context of their time. This book isn’t just about the math itself—it’s about the rich history and the intellectual adventure that has driven mathematical discovery over the centuries. Dunham masterfully captures the beauty and timelessness of these mathematical achievements.