Although it is the simplest of all nonlinear geometric forms, the circle is far from trivial. It is indeed a pleasure that The Mathematical Association of America chose to reprint an update of this classic first printed in 1957. Geometry teaching has been in retreat for many years in the US and that has been a sad (and very bad) thing. It is also puzzling as so many people say that the reason why they cannot do mathematics (i.e. algebra) is that they need to see something in order to understand it. Furthermore, the first mathematical education that most children receive contains the differentiation of shapes and their different properties.
Circles and lines as used in geometry are abstractions that are easily grasped, much simpler to many than the abstract generalizations of algebra. One can only hope that this book signals a rebirth in interest in geometry education. Without question, it can be used as a text for that education and would help parent a rebirth. To remedy this modern affliction and make the material available to the current readership, a chapter zero was included. This new chapter is used to introduce the background concepts and terminology that could be assumed when is was first published.
No one can truly appreciate the intellectual achievements of the ancients as summarized by Euclid without doing some of the problems. There is also a stark beauty to a form of mathematics where the tools are a compass, straightedge and a mind. Particularly in the age of calculators and computers. All of the basic, ancient results concerning circles are covered as well as some very recent ones. The theorems are well presented and compete without being overdone. In keeping with the ancient traditions, pencil, paper, compass and straightedge are the only tools used. A short collection of solved exercises is also included.
Like the books of Euclid, this work will grow old but never dated. It was destined to be a classic when is was first printed and remains so today.

Published in Smarandache Notions Journal, reprinted with permission.

Most books about arts and mathematics are written by non-mathematicians and often contain dubious or unclear statements. The late professor Pedoe was not just an outstanding mathematician, but also a great expositor. This book shows the breadth of his scholarship.

It is not as flashy as some of the modern books. If you are looking for pretty pictures, then this is not the book for you. However, if you are looking for mathematically and historically correct info, and you have the persistence to actually read it, you will be rewarded.

Highly recommended for teachers of mathematics!

Be aware that the preface of this book explains that it is based on a course for junior and senior college students and first-year graduate students. This book is much more than the average person will ever need. A simpler approach for people like me who just want to prepare for calculus is Geometry and Trigonometry for Calculus by Peter H. Selby.

A wonderful book, value for money! If you are learning geometry for interest or to prepare for competitions such as IMO, then this book is for you! The theorems and diagrams are complete and straight to the point. The author presents the informations in a succinct manner; thus it is easy for one to follow and comprehend. I guess it may be one of the most complete book on geometry in the market!