The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)

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Often compared to Tolkien's Middle-earth or Lewis's Narnia, Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea is a stunning fantasy world that grabs quickly at our hearts, pulling us deeply into its imaginary realms. Four books (A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, The Farthest Shore, and Tehanu) tell the whole Earthsea cycle--a tale about a reckless, awkward boy named Sparrowhawk who becomes a wizard's apprentice after the wizard reveals Sparrowhawk's true name. The boy comes to realize that his fate may be far more important than he ever dreamed possible. Le Guin challenges her readers to think about the power of language, how in the act of naming the world around us we actually create that world. Teens, especially, will be inspired by the way Le Guin allows her characters to evolve and grow into their own powers.

In this second book of Le Guin's Earthsea series, readers will meet Tenar, a priestess to the "Nameless Ones" who guard the catacombs of the Tombs of Atuan. Only Tenar knows the passageways of this dark labyrinth, and only she can lead the young wizard Sparrowhawk, who stumbles into its maze, to the greatest treasure of all. Will she?

Book Description

WHEN YOUNG TENAR is chosen as high priestess to the ancient and nameless Powers of the Earth, everything is taken away -- home, family, possessions, even her name. For she is now Arha, the Eaten One, guardian of the ominous Tombs of Atuan. While she is learning her way through the dark labyrinth, a young wizard, Ged, comes to steal the Tombs' greatest hidden treasure, the Ring of Erreth-Akbe. But Ged also brings with him the light of magic, and together, he and Tenar escape from the darkness that has become her domain.

With millions of copies sold, Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle has earned a treasured place on the shelves of fantasy lovers everywhere. Complex, innovative, and deeply moral, this quintessential fantasy sequence has been compared with the work of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and has helped make Le Guin one of the most distinguished fantasy and science fiction writers of all time. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

Customer Reviews:

It's the ways this is different that make it special.......2007-01-25

This is wonderful novel, but it's not for everyone. A reviewer below mentioned this being a "swords and sorcery" novel. That's dead wrong, though. There's not a sword to be found in it, really. There is magic, of course, but it manifests itself in a very different way and at a very different tempo than true "swords and sorcery" novels.

What I love about this are the very things that some readers - often male readers, I'd wager - don't quite like about it. I like the very many ways it's DIFFERENT than anything else I've read in fantasy. Honestly, for the first half of there's no high adventure at all. It's the slow story a young girl indoctrinated into a dark and foreboding religion. Yes, a young GIRL. The main character of this novel knows no magic, doesn't own a sword, isn't out to change the world. That's refreshingly different than most fantasy.

Add to that that the hero figure, Ged, doesn't even enter the novel until well into it. And add to that that when he's introduced he's largely powerless and at the mercy of the young woman, Tenar. How their relationship develops and how it becomes a quest novel drives the later half of the book, but still LeGuin never takes us too far from Tenar and the fact that everything she's experiencing is completely changing the world as she knew it.

For those reasons - and more - this is a wonderful novel. If any of this sounds interesting to you please buy this and read it. Or read it again if - like me - you're an adult that first read Earthsea stuff years ago. It holds up wonderfully and it has plenty to appeal to adults as well as to younger readers.

I'm a fan, and before long I'll pick up the next one and journey back to Earthsea again.

"I Know Where the Great Treasure Is...".......2006-11-24

This is the second book in the "Earthsea" series, but I would hate anyone to think that these books are meant to be read in any particular order. True, the character of Ged ages in each one of them and "Tombs" was penned by author Ursula le Guin *after* "A Wizard of Earthsea", but...these books are unique. Like "The Chronicles of Narnia", many make a big deal about the correct reading order when in fact it`s not that big a deal. Think of it like Diana Wynne Jones's "Chrestomanci" series or even George Lucas's Star Wars trilogy and its prequels. Sometimes thinks are better when they are read out of chronological order. And sometimes they aren't. That's the best part about "Earthsea" - it doesn't really matter.

As a young child Tenar is taken from her home to serve as "Arha" (or, "The Nameless One") in the Tombs of Atuan, identified as the reincarnated One Priestess. Her name is taken from her, she is now known as "The Eaten One", servant of the Nameless Ones, subjected to repetitive ritual and ceremonies, revered as a holy being and yet alone and friendless. Amongst the desolate tombs and stone buildings of the desert, Tenar lives out a meaningless existence in the service of speechless, invisible gods.

Her only solace is in the underground labyrinth, a place where light is forbidden and where only she dares tread. Somewhere in the twisting tunnels is the great treasure room, where a priceless artefact lies. It is for this that the wizard Ged (now middle-aged) secretly enters the labyrinth so that he might restore its power to the world above. But he has underestimated the difficulties of the labyrinth, and now lies at the mercy of the Arha. Fascinated by this travelling wizard, she is loathe to have him executed - not when he is incapacitated by the labyrinth and thus completely in her power. A battle of wits emerges; with the Arha gradually becoming aware of life beyond her service to the Nameless Ones and Ged desperately bartering for his life.

The desert, the tombs and the underground labyrinth are all detailed and descriptive - in fact, it can get a little claustrophobic down there in the labyrinth! It's not quite as vivid as Alan Garner's descriptions in "The Weirdstone of Brisingamen"), but the detailed descriptions of the pressing darkness and the twisting tunnels certainly made sigh in relief every time Tenar emerged once more into the sunlight.

Most fantasy stories cater to a quest motif, and although this is partly the case here, what with Ged searching for the ring of Erreth-Akbe, the fact that the story is told entirely from Tenar's point of view makes it quite different. "The Tombs of Atuan" is best described as a character study of a young woman who has been raised in extra-ordinary circumstances. How many other fantasy books can be described thus? Rather than the quest for the ring (I couldn`t help but toy with the idea that le Guin chose a ring as the McGuffin so that it would be purposefully contrasted with "The Lord of the Rings") the author concentrates solely on the thoughts and experiences of her detached and proud protagonist, in whose young hands lie the power of life and death. For this reason, many readers may be put off. There is very little action throughout the course of the book, and the pacing is almost excruciatingly slow. But this is precisely the point: it is the best way to convey the monotony and misery of Tenar's life.

The loss of faith, the shock of freedom, the loneliness of power, the terror of being responsible for another's death - these are the hefty issues at the forefront of the novel, and ones that are handled brilliantly by the author. It's not an easy book to get through, and perhaps not even a re-readable one; but for anyone claiming to be a fantasy-fan, or even someone who claims to be a reader of all the classics, it is essential.

"May the Black Ones take your soul, Kossil!".......2006-10-14

While not as detailed or as ornate as THE LORD OF THE RINGS, LeGuin's Earthsea Cycle is considered among the finest of the Sword and Sorcery classics. THE TOMBS OF ATUAN is the second book in the Cycle.

In THE TOMBS OF ATUAN, Ged, now in his young manhood, is once again on a quest, seeking to restore the Rune of Peace. He comes to bleak and desolate Atuan, one of the Kargad Lands, and into the lair of the Black Ones, malevolent Old Powers of Earth, worshipped now by a cult headed by Arha, "The Eaten One."

Trapped in an underground maze, he is at first mocked by Arha, a young girl named Tenar, recently elevated to the priestesshood; however, as Tenar/Arha begins to know him she becomes enthralled with his tales of the outside world. In the end, she aids him in evading the Black Ones, escaping from the vindictive senior priestess, recovering the Rune of Peace, and returning to his own country.

THE TOMBS OF ATUAN is a book in which atmosphere is everything. The oppressiveness of Arha's life, the isolation of Atuan, and the enveloping pall of evil and decay in that land pervade this book, making it somewhat difficult to "get into." The story is sad and drear, only relieved at the very end by the success of Ged's quest and the liberation of Tenar.

Not too bad............2006-02-24

The second book in the earthsea cycle is about a girl who is born a high priestess(or actually, a reincarnation of one). Her true name is Tenar, but was called Arha, the "eaten one." She is a priestess for the godkings and is the one who goes through the labrinyth of Atuan. The labrinyth is completely dark, and has to be memorized by touch and sense of direction since there is no light. I think there are holes in one part of the labrinyth(or the tombs, I can't remember which), where you can look down into them and light will pass through. No one was ever allowed into the undertomb of the labrinyth. Turns out Ged is the one seeking the ring of Erreth-Akbe. I could go farther but don't want to ruin the story. The story was okay, in terms of the way it's written. Half the time, the book bore me because it didn't really have a clear story plot. Still recommended though.

Bit of letdown.......2005-09-19

The best part of the second book in the Earthsea series is the first book... This story, thankfully very short, is a letdown. The writing is excellent but the storyline centers on a very weak and uninteresting character. I would imagine only people really interested in the series should bother reading it, all others should skip it.

The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)

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Not Free SF Reader
Return to Earthsea

The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)
Ursula K. Le Guin
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Epic | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1416509623

Book Description

THE TOMBS OF ATUAN

Book Two of Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle

Now a SCI FI Original Miniseries!

When young Tenar is chosen as high priestess to the ancient and nameless Powers of the Earth, everything is taken away from her-home, family, possessions, even her name. She is now known only as Arha, the Eaten One, guardian of the labyrinthine Tombs of Atuan, shrouded in darkness. When a young wizard, Ged Sparrowhawk, comes to steal the Tombs' greatest hidden treasure, the Ring of Erreth-Akbe, Tenar's rightful duty is to protect the Tombs. But Ged also brings with him the light of magic and tales of a brighter world Tenar has never known. Will Tenar risk everything to escape the darkness that has become her domain?

With millions of copies sold worldwide, Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle has earned a treasured place on the shelves of fantasy lovers everywhere, alongside the works of such beloved authors as J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis.

Customer Reviews:

Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03

The sequel to A Wizard of Earthsea is a little disappointing after the first book, and changes fairly significantly.

It shifts focus from the mature wizard Ged, to a young woman. She is a member of a matriarchal cult, and they end up trapping and imprisoning Ged after he comes there on a mission.

She has to come to realise what is more important.

Return to Earthsea.......2004-11-06

The second book of Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle, "Tombs of Atuan," is very different from the first book. It features a different coming-of-age tale from Ged Sparrowhawk's, this time of a spirited girl who has been given everything except freedom. More contemplative and disturbing, this is almost as good as "Wizard of Earthsea."

As a little child, Tenar was taken from her family by the priestesses, who said she was the reborn High Princess of the Nameless Ones, the dark, ruthless powers who are in the Tombs of Atuan. Her name is taken away and she was afterwards called Arha (which means that she was "eaten," spiritually), and she is raised in the cold, uninviting temple. When Arha is fifteen, she finds that a wizard has somehow gained entrance to the massive mazelike Labyrinth, committing sacrilege and polluting the "center of darkness" with his staff's light.

He's searching for half of a powerful ring; he has one half, she has the other. She takes the wizard Sparrowhawk prisoner, and for some reason doesn't want to kill him. Instead she listens to his stories about dragons, magic and his home -- until a vengeful priestess learns that Arha is keeping the wizard alive. To escape horrible deaths, they must escape together from the Nameless Ones, and Tenar will be set free in more ways than one.

Ursula Le Guin's worldbuilding was masterful in the first book, and it's no less so in "Tombs of Atuan." The decayed, corrupted, darkness-obsessed religion and culture that Tenar is raised in seems very real. The only spot of warmth and life is Penthe, a childhood pal of Tenar's, who longs to get away from the temple and go live a normal, happy life.

Le Guin's writing is both spare and descriptive; she makes you feel like you know the characters with only a few pages. Her elegantly understated descriptions bring the grey, cold temple and tombs to life. Themes like religion, disbelief, loyalty, redemption, freedom, and enslavement are woven in, but not preachily. The book suffers somewhat when Ged and Tenar are getting to know each other; even during a crisis, Ged spends a lot of time talking about his past and the Ring. It's less a conversation than an infodump.

The relationship between Tenar and Ged is the centerpiece of the book. At first they are enemies, then gradually grow to trust one another even though rationally neither one should. Tenar is a strong, brave, slightly immature girl whose spirit has been kept enslaved to the Nameless Ones, and Ged is the brave, gentle, strong wizard we got to know in "Wizard."

The second book of the Earthsea cycle, while not as strong as the first, is still a compelling book. The dark, tense "Tombs of Atuan" remains a modern fantasy classic. And does it ever deserve it.

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The Tombs of Atuan (The Earthsea Cycle, Book 2)
Ursula K. LeGuin
Manufacturer: Atheneum
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding
ASIN: B000O3JTVY

Tombs Of Atuan - Earthsea Cycle, Book Two

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Tombs Of Atuan - Earthsea Cycle, Book Two
Ursula K. Le Guin
Manufacturer: Pocket Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Customer Reviews:

The Reality..........2001-03-24

Meticuously researched and documented essays detail the obvious conservative bias of the media as they continue to do the dirty work of the elites. Good for those misguided individuals who continue to believe the nonsense that the media is dominated by liberals (the same media that refuses to cover NAFTA, GATT, WTO, the racist War on Drugs, health care for the rich, the death penalty, etc., but lived for the last 6 years off the political "scandals" of the most effective Republican president in the last 50 years- Mr. Clinton). A must for the open-minded and progressive of this country.

Insightful.......2001-02-14

Edward Herman deserves equal ranking with other great debunkers of our day. His style is more academic than say, Chomsky or Parenti, but he achieves genuine depth even in the short space compiled in the book. This is done by locating pivotal points in the topic and developing them with insight and fact, as exemplified in a devastating analysis of Milton Friedman and the Chicago school of economics, a chief source of neo-liberal theory.

Though many topical issues are discussed, most center around globalism and the emerging world of unrestrained capital. Though all sections have merit, those adressing economics, and media are strongest. Not only are the likes of a Friedman debunked, but so are major defects in the work of such lesser lights as Peter Passell and his Limbaugh-like anti-environmentalism. Particularly useful is the author's discussion of how the science of economics has been politicized, with the Nobel prize as a prime example. Also noteworthy: A model of development for Third World countries, i.e. basic needs/ independence model, that would prioritize domestic investment over the dependency brand required by western interests. Apologists for the global power grab like to pretend neo-liberalism is the only framework left to choose from. Seldom mentioned are those killer technologies from the sky that make sure no alternatives challenge "free trade" and the dominant class lurking behind it.

The sections on media's role in carrying out state propaganda are noteworthy for a balanced and nimble approach. Herman shrewdly points out the face-saving features that make a democratic media appear credible in the eyes of many. Yet, as he shows too, this is only a facade. For behind it a very effective system of decentralized censorship operates, the major mechanisms of which the book spells out. It should be added that this current system - and system it is - has evolved over time, without central direction or guiding blueprint, into perhaps the most effective form of public manipulation in history. Despite all, a general public that is aware of vested interests, senses this same media is not to be trusted. But the complex mechanisms which would validate such cynicism are rarely spelled out or popularly understood, so the disconnect continues. Compounding this is a political rightwing that deflects popular doubts onto a supposed liberal bias in reporting, a truly Orwellian twist. Herman's hope for the future lies in a burgeoning civic sector media, free from private and public sector warps.

All in all, this is an excellent purchase for the serious reader, particularly for those inclined by years of indoctrination into supposing that America and America Inc. are the same thing.

Absolutely amazing book.......2000-01-05

Gives amazing insight into the reality of America from the educational institutions to foreign policy. The analysis and examples in the book are amazing. A must have for anyone intersted in humanity. Herman at his best.

Book Description

Using U.S. Current Population Survey data from 1947 to 1985, Maxwell presents the results of a comprehensive study of the causes and consequences of the upturn in income inequality that took place during this period. By examining the impact of changing industrial and occupational employment, population age structure, household structure, female labor force participation, and government spending on social insurance, she systematically estimates and compares the influences on the inequality upturn. The book's findings reveal that the predominant influence on increasing income inequality is the changing economy, which has resulted in increased income at the top of the distribution and reduced income at the bottom. More specifically, the book shows that economic and demographic factors influenced income inequality by (1) altering the composition of income-receiving units (in other words, the shift toward female-headed and unrelated individual units), (2) altering the income distribution within each income-receiving unit type or within each race, and (3) altering the relative income between income-receiving units and race.

Income Inequality in the United States, 1947-1985

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Income Inequality in the United States, 1947-1985
Nan L. Maxwell
Manufacturer: Greenwood Pub Group 01/1//1990
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000N5VP2O

Book Description

Newspaper humor columnist, public speaker, and playwright Monica Lewis' laugh-out-loud observations on motherhood, relationships, balancing work and family, and the quirks of everyday life, hit home on every page. On knowing you're too old to have a baby: "You know you're too old when, to you, a period is just something that goes at the end of a sentence." On the irony of giving your kids a time-out: "Most parents would love the luxury of taking an hour to just sit in our rooms. Hell, I'd even sit in the corner if it meant a moment or two of peace and quiet." On helping your child with math homework: "I'm hopeless at math. For me, Cardinal Numbers are the amount of red birds on the tree outside my bedroom window." On Santa Claus: "If Santa was a man, everyone in the universe would wake up Christmas morning to find a rotating musical Chia Pet under the tree, still in the store bag." On Not Cleaning the Refrigerator: "If food were human, I'd be considered a slumlord."

Customer Reviews:

A Truly Enjoyable Biography-A Must-Have for Big Band Fans.......2005-05-23

During the 1970's some of the liner notes of re-issued Glenn Miller music engaged in a good bit of "Miller Bashing." It seemed like it was fashionable to find anyone who had ever been disgruntled about working for Glenn and interview them. That was in direct contrast to the syrupy portrayal of Glenn in the movie "The Glenn Miller Story" (which is still very enjoyable with all of it's inaccuracies). George T.'s biography of Miller stands out as a beacon of accuracy in a sea of extremist hyperbole.

Simon and Miller were friends before and during the peak of Miller's popularity. Simon even recorded with Miller on a few Decca sides before Glenn formed a band with stable personnel; and Simon was one of the section drummers in Miller's Army Air Force Band during WWII. However, George did not go to England, but remained behind to head up the V-Disc recording program. I say all this by way of giving the author's impeccable credentials. Simon was the best man for the job.

This biography is balanced, fact filled, and completely enjoyable. While Simon clearly likes Miller, he doesn't mind mentioning a couple of times when they experienced rough spots in their friendship. Simon is able to use his relationship with Miller to paint an intimate picture of Glenn Miller the man, as well as GM the musician.

This book works on a number of levels, and is a must read for anyone who wants to know more about the Big Band Era. Thank goodness it is still in print.

Great Book on Glenn Miller.......2003-07-12

I've always loved the music of Glenn Miller. Especially being a swing dancer. What makes this book so great is Mr. Simon was there with Glenn and the orchestra, pitching in on drums for backup, and involved in every aspect. He was associated with Glenn during those great years of the Big Bands. His personal way of talking to the reader makes you feel like you were there, too. You become intimately involved in his life, through scores of wonderul photos, diary entries, and interviews with others who knew Glenn well. You also are introduced to many of the band members. After reading this book, I feel like I know not just Glenn, but Marion Hutton, Trigger Alpert, and all the other wonderful musicians who made the most wonderful music in the history of the world.

I used to wish I could travel back in time to the swing era, and witness bands like Glenn Miller's live. Now, after reading this book, I feel like I have.

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Glenn Miller & his Orchestra: the Story of America's Most Unforgettable Bandleader
George T. Simon
Manufacturer: Crowell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000J2ISJE

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Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
George T Simon
Manufacturer: THOMAS Y CROWELL COMPANY
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000SMO2LS

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Glenn Miller & His Orchestra Inscribed
George T Simon
Manufacturer: CROWELL & CO
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000SO3QMW

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Glenn Miller And His Orchestra
George T. SIMON
Manufacturer: see notes for publisher info
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000RJMGBA

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Glenn Miller And His Orchestra
George T. SIMON
Manufacturer: Publisher Unknown
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000WBMIIO

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Glenn Miller and His Orchestra
George Simon
Manufacturer: Thomas Y. Crowell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000QDL6VS

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Glenn Miller and His Orchestra Volume One 1935-1940
Charles Garrod
Manufacturer: Joyce Record Club Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000PSE7VA

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Glenn Miller and His Orchestra Volume Three (The Air Force Band) 1943-1944
Charles Garrod
Manufacturer: Joyce Record Club Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000PSATL2

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Glenn Miller and His Orchestra Volume Two 1941-1942
Charles Garrod
Manufacturer: Joyce Record Club Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000PSE7Y2

Book Description

Through many decades, Lake Martin, a symbol of sustenance, has enticed generations of residents, vacationers, and modern retirees to its welcoming shores. This picturesque lake, shaped like a dragon protecting its territory, has witnessed droughts, tornadoes, fishing tournaments, boat races, and even World War II aircraft crashes. Surrounded by its own unique history, Lake Martin also reflects the dynamic personalities of those who sacrificed childhood homes and family land to bring dreams of a prosperous future to fruition. ÝÝBefore the Tallapoosa River was dammed to feed Lake Martinís waters, it was an ideal environment for the Native Americans who resided on land now submerged. The landís history is rife with discord as British soldiers and Georgia Rangers resisted French spies in the early 1700s and migrant settlers defended their homefront during the Civil War. The Martin Dam became a state landmark by 1927, generating hydroelectric power while memorializing the 31-mile-long lake as the worldís largest man-made body of water at the time. It was not long before Lake Martin evolved into a community enjoying unparalleled growth as a vacation site and permanent home for Americans who discovered the satisfaction lakeside living could provide. Lake Martin: Alabamaís Crown Jewel chronicles the trials and triumphs of the people who created one of todayís leading retirement communities through courageous choices and determination. The story is told through compelling narrative and evocative images, many of which have not been widely published. ÝÝ

Customer Reviews:

Lake Martin Lovers Will Appreciate It.......2004-06-12

If you're interested in the local history of Lake Martin, then you'll enjoy this book. It covers the local history of the Alexander City and Dadeville areas of Alabama, in very specific terms related to the construction and impact of Lake Martin. It also includes some history prior to the damming of the Tallapoosa, covering the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. I particularly enjoyed the collection of period photographs.

However, be forewarned that it is a rambling collection of anecdotes and bits of historical fact. I found the author's style to be lackluster and the chapters dealing with recent history were poorly edited. Each paragraph in chapters related to modern history was one short story that was unrelated to the previous or subsequent paragraph. Additionally, book does not cover the Lake in the context of the Great Depression or the World Wars, except in passing. Lake Martin deserves better writing, more complete research, and a better editor than this book offers.

Book Description

The Prentice Hall Essence of Computing Series provides a concise, practical and uniform introduction to the core components of an undergraduate computer science degree. Acknowledging recent changes within Higher Education, this approach uses a variety of pedagogical tools-case studies, worked examples and self-test questions to underpin the student's learning.

The essence of Discrete Mathematics provides under one cover all the essential topics covered in a first course on discrete mathematics. Following an introductory chapter, which explains to the reader how to use the book, there follows chapters on sets and logic. In these chapters every effort has been made to give the reader clear instructions on how to 'calculate' values for mathematical expressions for small finite sets. Since it is best to use examples familiar to the reader, sets of numbers are used extensively. Nevertheless it is important for the reader to examine non-numerical examples, and so a case study is introduced at the end of the chapter on sets and then subsequently used throughout the remainder of the book.

Once these basic skills have been mastered, the reader progresses on to relations and functions. These are first introduced as intuitive notions before explaining how they can be modelled using sets. There follows a chapter showing how the ideas of modelling with sets and logic can be applied to more practical problems. Finally there is a brief concluding chapter which invites readers to continue their mathematical growth: The Essence of Discrete Mathematics is meant to be the beginning and not the end.

Customer Reviews:

Good........2005-01-09

I liked this book. After taking a discrete math course some time ago then promptly and deliberately forgetting as much as humanly possible about it. I am going on to get a masters degree in computer science. The professors love discrete math so some work involves writing things out mathematically. I am not a math oriented person unless that math pertains to what I am currently working on, 3D graphics, Neural networks, etc. I was able to fly through this book feeling like I picked up a lot of useful information and it will serve as a simple reference. This isn't the 'be all end all' of discrete math it's a simple intro/refresher, of the core topics, which my discrete math professor must have glossed straight over to get to the "fun stuff". Fun for math nerds maybe, but when I was called on to reproduce this knowledge outside of that class most of what must be demonstrated is the basic core stuff.

So I am happy to say this book helped me refresh my skills up to the point I am confident I will be able to slide under the radar during that work to do well in the courses I am taking.

I was tempted to give this book 4 stars because it is still a math book, but what the heck. 5/5

Too Brief and Too Simple.......2004-04-29

From reading the above reviews, I assumed the book was a good source of information to help me understand the materials being covered in class. There are some useful information in the book but it didn't cover 50% of the topics that were went over in class.
A few topics that the book didn't cover was:
* Big O concept
* Modular Arithmetic

Great and simple introduction to Discrete Mathematics.......2003-07-12

If you've read other textbooks on Discrete Math and had as much trouble as I did following them, then this book is for you. It covers the material well and is easier to follow then most other books on the subject. Plus, the price is right!

Simple, readable, practical.......2001-08-29

I bought Keneth Rosen's book on ebay, and uhhhhh... The thing was 600 pages long, and boring... I was looking for something simpler and shorter, and Dr. Dean's book was just what I needed. There are several things that I like about this book
1. It is short
2. No fluff
3. It explain foundations of discrete math giving it some practical side.
4. It is easy to read
5. Solutions to questions is provided even the book is 200 pages long

If you are struggling programmer who need some grounding in formalism or you would like to get started with discrete math, than this book is a good start. For 13 bucks it is more than a great deal. Big thanks to the author.
Dmitriy

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The Essence of Discrete Mathematics
Neville Dean
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000L2GK60

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