Algorithmic Puzzles

“Algorithmic Puzzles by Anany Levitin and Maria Levitin is an interesting and novel style of puzzle book. The emphasis lies in training the reader to think algorithmically and develop new puzzle-solving skills: the majority of puzzles are problems where we are asked to find the shortest distance or the fewest moves to get from A to B, or construct a proof that a puzzle has no solution. the book provides plenty of puzzles to keep even the most avidproblem-solvers busy for a long time, all with varying levels of difficulty and different styles/contexts. The solutions provided are comprehensive and explain themselves in a friendly, constructive manner,complete with illustrations. In addition to questions and answers, a section of brief hints is also provided to assist the reader in their puzzle-solving endeavours.” – Graham Wheeler, Significance

Anany Levitin is a professor of Computing Sciences at Villanova University. He is the author of a popular textbook on design and analysis of algorithms, which has been translated into Chinese, Greek, Korean, and Russian. He has also published papers on mathematical optimization theory, software engineering, data management, algorithm design, and computer science education.

Maria Levitin is an independent consultant. After some years working for leading software companies and developing business applications for large corporations, she now specializes in web-based applications and wireless computing.