Mathematical Reading List – University of Cambridge [pdf]

"This list of interesting mathematics books and internet sites is mainly intended for sixth-formers planning to take a degree in mathematics. However, everyone who likes mathematics should take a look: some of the items are very suitable for less experienced readers and even the most hardened mathematician will probably find something new here."

INTRODUCTION

The range of mathematics books now available is enormous. This list just contains a few suggestions which you should find helpful if you wish to choose some mathematical reading. Do not feel you should read all or most of these books: there is far too much here for even the most dedicated reader! Just pick what appeals to you. Any reading you do will certainly prove useful, and it is also perfectly alright not to have read any of the books in this list!

The books here are divided into three groups: historical and general (which aim to give a broad idea of the scope and development of the subject); recreational, from problem books (which aim to keep your brain working) to technical books (which give you insight into a specific area of mathematics and include mathematical discussion); and textbooks (which cover a topic in advanced mathematics of the kind that you will encounter in your first year at university). Do not feel that you should only read the difficult ones: medicine is only good for you if it is hard to take, but this is not true for mathematics books.

All the books on the list should be obtainable from your local library, though you may have to order them. Most are available (relatively) cheaply in paperback or as kindle editions and so would make good additions to your Christmas list. Some may be out of print, but still obtainable from libraries.

You might also like to look on the web for mathematics sites. Good starting points are:

NRICH (http://nrich.maths.org.uk) which is a web-based interactive mathematics club; in addition there is:

Plus (http://plus.maths.org.uk), which is a web-based mathematics journal. Both these sites are based in Cambridge.