Skip to product information
1 of 1

Julian Havil

Curves for the Mathematically Curious: An Anthology of the Unpredictable, Historical, Beautiful, and Romantic

Curves for the Mathematically Curious: An Anthology of the Unpredictable, Historical, Beautiful, and Romantic

YOU SAVE £3.50

Regular price £15.49 GBP
Regular price £18.99 GBP Sale price £15.49 GBP
18% OFF Sold out
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
  • Condition: Brand new
  • UK Delivery times: Usually arrives within 2 - 3 working days
  • UK Shipping: Fee starts at £2.39. Subject to product weight & dimension
Low Stock: Only 2 copies remaining
Trustpilot 4.5 stars rating  Excellent
We're rated excellent on Trustpilot.
  • More about Curves for the Mathematically Curious: An Anthology of the Unpredictable, Historical, Beautiful, and Romantic


Curves for the Mathematically Curious is a collection of ten mathematical curves selected by Julian Havil for their significance, mathematical interest, and beauty. Each chapter tells the history and definition of one curve, introducing mathematicians and other innovators who have engaged with it. The book is designed for readers to follow the details with pencil and paper, providing a rigorous and enriching mathematical experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press


Curves for the Mathematically Curious is a meticulously curated collection of ten mathematical curves, handpicked by Julian Havil for their profound significance, mathematical allure, and aesthetic beauty. Each chapter delves into the historical background and definition of a specific curve, offering a glimpse into the intricate and often unexpected mathematics that shaped its creation and evolution. Through the telling of these ten captivating stories, Havil introduces a diverse range of mathematicians and innovators, some of whom have endured the test of time and others who have fallen into relative obscurity. Among these notable figures are Pierre Bézier, renowned for his ubiquitous and eponymous curves, and Adolphe Quetelet, who championed the prevalence of the normal curve but whose name is now associated with the modern body mass index. These and other ingenious minds have engaged with the challenges, paradoxes, and insights inherent in these remarkable curves, and now readers can embark on this same adventure.

Curves for the Mathematically Curious is a rigorous and enriching exploration of the world of curves for anyone with a passion for this mathematical domain. The book is thoughtfully designed to allow readers who wish to delve deeper into the details to follow along with pencil and paper. Every curve possesses a unique story that is worth unraveling.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 134 x 203 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691206134

UK and International shipping information

UK Delivery and returns information:

  • Delivery within 2 - 3 days when ordering in the UK.
  • Shipping fee for UK customers from £2.39. Fully tracked shipping service available.
  • Returns policy: Return within 30 days of receipt for full refund.

International deliveries:

Shulph Ink now ships to Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, New Zealand, United States of America, Belgium, India, United Arab Emirates.

  • Delivery times: within 5 - 10 days for international orders.
  • Shipping fee: charges vary for overseas orders. Only tracked services are available for international orders.
  • Customs charges: If ordering to addresses outside the United Kingdom, you may or may not incur additional customs and duties fees during local delivery.
View full details