The Book Review Column

Abstract

In this column we review these three books: 1. Compact Data Structures - A Practical Approach, by Gonzalo Navarro. An unusual approach focussing on data structures that use as little space as is theoretically possible, while maintaining practicality. Review by Laszlo Kozma. 2. Power Up: Unlocking the Hidden Mathematics in Video Games, by Matthew Lane. A revealing look at the mathematics, physics, and computer science that underlies (good) video games, with special attention to their potential valuable role in education. Review by S. V. Nagaraj. 3. Probability and Computing: Randomization and Probabilistic Techniques in Algorithms and Data Analysis (Second Edition), by Michael Mitzenmacher and Eli Upfal. The second edition2 of a distinguished text on a rich area that is central to computer and data science. Review by Aravind Srinivasan. Many thanks to these and all reviewers over the years who have graciously volunteered this valuable service to the community! Interested in reviewing? I hope so. Remember the perks: Learning (more?) about a field that interests you, a review on these pages, and a free book! The books listed on the next two pages are available, but the list is not exhaustive: I'm open to suggestions.