Pythagoras’ Revenge: A Mathematical Mystery

Math geeks will best appreciate this uneasy mix of higher mathematics and Dan Brown–style intrigue, the fiction debut of science journalist Sangalli (The Importance of Being Fuzzy and Other Insights from the Border Between Math and Computers ). The Order of the Beacon, a “Neo-Pythagorean sect” that believes the ancient Greek philosopher has been reincarnated, is seeking Pythagoras’ current incarnation. The conspiracy ropes in mathematician Jule Davidson and his twin sister, Johanna, a computer security specialist. Pages of academic prose devoted to such concepts as random numbers as well as unnecessary chronological jumps interrupt the narrative flow. Those who enjoyed Tefcros Michaelides’s Pythagorean Crimes (Reviews, July 21, 2008) will find more of the same. (June)