Magic, Mathematics, And Playing Cards

Drawing from their collective experience as math enthusiasts, the authors, who are co-founders of Mathematical Circus, have compiled a collection of mathematical activities centered around a standard deck of cards. This book presents a range of self-working card tricks, each rooted in mathematical principles, explained in a clear and straightforward manner. Designed to be both educational and entertaining, the book makes these mathematical concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

Jorge Nuno Silva holds a PhD in Mathematics from UC Berkeley. He is a retired professor at the University of Lisbon. He is a member of the Interuniversity Center for the History of Science and Technology (CIUHCT) and serves as the President of LUDUS. Jorge is the managing editor of Recreational Mathematics Magazine and the Board Game Studies Journal. He has authored several books and articles on Mathematics, the History of Mathematics, Recreational Mathematics, and Board Games. Additionally, he is a co-founder of the group Mathematical Circus.

Pedro J Freitas is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History and Philosophy of Science at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, and a member of CIUHCT. He holds a PhD in Mathematics. His teaching and research primarily focus on the history of mathematics, recreational mathematics, and the interplay between mathematics and art. In addition to his academic work, he is actively engaged in mathematical outreach initiatives. He is also a co-founder of the group Mathematical Circus.

Alexandre Silva is currently a mathematics teacher at Colégio de S José do Ramalhão and holds a PhD in Combinatorial Game Theory. He has a strong interest in exploring the recreational aspects of mathematics. He is also a co-founder of the group Mathematical Circus.

Tiago Hirth is a math enthusiast dedicated to exploring the playful side of mathematics through magic, movement, and games. In his leisure time, he actively engages in research, promotes science, organizes events, and teaches. Since 2018, he has been affiliated with CIUHCT. His research interests include (recreational) mathematics, magic, board game studies, and their historical contexts. He is also a co-founder of the group Mathematical Circus.