Adam Spencer's Big Book of Numbers

Book excerpt: How can a prime number be ‘sexy’ and ‘safe’ at the same time? Why shouldn’t Aussie cricketers be scared of the number 87? And how many bacteria live in your pants … All the answers and more are in Adam Spencer’s Big Book of Numbers. This is a book for readers of all ages who love numbers, who want to love numbers, or who just love to laugh and learn about the wonderful world we live in. For 15 years Adam Spencer has been entertaining us. On triple j and ABC radio and television, he’s established himself as Australia’s funniest and most famous mathematician. And now, by popular demand, we have his Big Book of Numbers, a fascinating journey from 1 to 100. Praise for Adam Spencer’s Big Book of Numbers ‘If you find this book boring, you should be in a clinic.’ John Cleese ‘Funny yet with hidden depths, like its author. A brilliant introduction to the world of numbers.’ Brian Cox ‘Even the page numbers will start to look fascinating once you’ve read this book!’ Amanda Keller ‘This book will bring out the inner geek in anyone who knows how to count to 100.’ Brian Schmidt, Winner, 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics ‘Funny, informative and, even better for dummies like me, all the answers are in the back.’ Wil Anderson ‘Excellent. Can’t wait to geek-out my dinner party guests with my new maths facts!’ Maryanne Demasi, Catalyst, ABC Television