What is'mathematical fiction'?

One characteristic is the use of mathematical concepts as plot devices. For example, in some works, the solution to a mathematical problem might be the key to saving the world. Another is the exploration of theoretical mathematics in a fictional setting, like imagining different geometries or number systems.

They often incorporate mathematical concepts. For example, like in 'Flatland', the use of geometric shapes to represent different classes in society is a direct use of mathematical ideas.

Another is 'The Number Devil' by Hans Magnus Enzensberger. It tells the story of a boy who dreams about a number devil that teaches him all sorts of interesting math concepts in a fun and engaging manner. There are things like prime numbers, Fibonacci sequences and more. It's a great way to introduce kids to math through a fictional story.

They often incorporate complex mathematical concepts. For example, books might use ideas from geometry, number theory or calculus as key elements of the plot. This makes the stories not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating.

Also, 'A Beautiful Mind' which is based on the life of John Nash. While it's more of a biographical account, it still delves into Nash's mathematical genius and the world of game theory, which is presented within the context of his life story. This shows how real - life mathematical achievements can be turned into engaging fictional - like narratives.

I also recommend 'Sir Cumference and the First Round Table'. It's about Sir Cumference and his family, and it cleverly uses the story to teach about circles, circumference, and other geometric concepts in an easy - to - understand way for beginners.

A popular one is 'The Housekeeper and the Professor' by Yoko Ogawa. It tells a story where a housekeeper takes care of a brilliant mathematician who has a short - term memory due to an accident. The story is filled with the beauty of mathematics as the professor shares his knowledge with the housekeeper and her son.

Mathematics stories usually involve an interesting mathematical problem or topic and unfold the story by telling the life of a mathematician or someone related to mathematics. The story would usually tell the mathematicians 'discoveries, challenges, successes, and failures, and how they applied these discoveries to practical problems or solved other difficult problems. A typical mathematical story might involve the following topics: - Exploring the unknown: mathematicians may challenge their own unknown areas to advance mathematics by solving difficult problems. - Discovering new theories: A mathematician may discover new theories or laws that may have an impact on existing mathematical theories. - Mathematics: mathematicians may apply mathematics to practical problems to solve various problems and advance science. - The beauty of mathematics: mathematicians may explore the beauty and meaning of mathematics and how to apply it to human life and other fields. Mathematics stories are often an interesting way to explore the mysteries and meaning of mathematics by telling the stories of mathematicians.

One great example is 'Flatland' by Edwin A. Abbott. It uses the concept of a two - dimensional world to explore geometric and social hierarchies in a really interesting way. Another is 'The Number Devil' which makes complex mathematical concepts like number theory more accessible through a story of a boy's dreams.

I also like 'The Number Devil' by Hans Magnus Enzensberger. It makes complex mathematical concepts like prime numbers, Fibonacci sequences, etc., accessible through a story about a boy and a number devil who visits him at night and teaches him math in a fun and imaginative way. This book is really good for getting people interested in the more magical side of mathematics within a fictional framework.