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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/product_reviews/pr_id/108977-Struck-by-Lightning-The-Curious-World-of-Probabilities
ASIN: 0309097347
ID #108977
Product Type: Book
Reviewer: Sweets
Review Rated: E
Amazon's Price: $ 23.85
Product Rating:
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Summary of this Book...
It is an entertaining and almost fun perspective on numbers. The book relates all those math classes one didn't like taking, to real life scenarios.

Jeffrey Rosenthal explains the truth behind probabilites and true randomness. He examines everything from black jack odds to Monty Hall to biases in political polls.

To make sure the reader understands the principles imparted in the book, the last chapter is a "Final Exam".
This type of Book is good for...
curious people who enjoy learning odd facts and figures.
I especially liked...
all the real life examples. After reading the book, one interprets numbers in a whole different way. It will actually make you THINK about daily decisions.
I didn't like...
the abundance of statistical information. The graphs and writing are great but one may get lost in some sections of the math. The book is about statistics, so truly some mathematics are required.
When I finished reading this Book I wanted to...
flip a coin one hundred times and record and ponder the results.
This Book made me feel...
Statisticians and the like are actually spin doctors. An understanding of probabilities is necessary to formulate intelligent questions which challenge every day perceptions.
The author of this Book...
Jeffrey Rosenthal (a proudly Canadian author), does a great job of sharing his passion for numbers with the general public.
I recommend this Book because...
it is well written and informative. There is enough humour to keep the reader entertained while learning the math stuff. The real life examples keep the reader connected to the book.
I don't recommend this Book because...
Further Comments...
If you are looking for a NON-FICTION book from which you will learn something, fork over the dough and buy the book. If you want to improve your understanding of statistics, buy the book. If you could care less about the odds of you being "Struck by Lightning", stay away.
 
My review is biased by personal curiousity. I enjoy knowing the story behind the numbers. I want to know that while my mayor earned the majority of votes, the majority of voters voted against him. Yes, it happens in places other than Florida.
Created May 09, 2007 at 12:57pm • Submit your own review...

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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/product_reviews/pr_id/108977-Struck-by-Lightning-The-Curious-World-of-Probabilities