The Music of the Primes

"At school, children are taught that prime numbers are divisible only by themselves and the number one. What they are not taught is that primes represent the most tantalising enigma in the pursuit of human knowledge. How can one predict when the next prime number will occur? Is there a formula that could generate primes? In 1859, German mathematician Bernhard Reimann put forward a hypothesis that suggested a solution to the ancient puzzle. Yet he failed to provide a proof and the mystery only deepened. In this breathtaking book, Marcus du Sautoy tells the story of the eccentric and brilliant men who sought a solution that would revolutionise fields as diverse as e-commerce, quantum mechanics and computer science. Du Sautoy's tale is a moving and awe-inspiring evocation of the mathematician's world and the beauties and secrets it contains."

The cheapest new copy of The Music of the Primes is £11.69 at LoveReading. Prices checked 15 Nov 2026

More by Marcus du Sautoy

More by Marcus du Sautoy