Who This Author Is

David M. Burton writes for readers who want a clear, sustained account of mathematical ideas and their development. His books trace major themes—from ancient arithmetic to modern analysis—layering historical narrative with worked examples and explanations that connect concepts to the problems that shaped them.

Burton’s texts prioritize teachable structure and thorough coverage: chronological chapters, focused biographies of key figures, and exercises that reinforce concepts. The result is a dependable resource for students and self-learners seeking a comprehensive, example-driven introduction to the history and practice of mathematics.

Best Place To Start

Elementary Number Theory: Fourth Edition

McGraw-Hill College • 1997 • longer commitment

It helps anchor a specific period of this author’s publishing run instead of blending into the undated shelf clutter.

Author At A Glance

Best known for: Comprehensive surveys of mathematics history • Chronological treatment of mathematical ideas • Clear exposition for students and instructors

Genres and themes: History of mathematics • Educational textbook • Evolution of mathematical concepts

Who this author is best for: Good for students, instructors, or general readers seeking a structured, readable overview of how mathematical ideas developed.

Start with the main survey volume and use chapter references to jump to specific eras or topics of interest.

Top Books To Start With

  1. Elementary Number Theory: Fourth Edition

    McGraw-Hill College • 1997 • longer commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1997 • 432 pages.

  2. The History of Mathematics (Hardcover)

    McGraw-Hill College • 1999 • oversized commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1999 • 710 pages.

  3. History of Mathematics: An Introduction (International Series in Pure & Applied Mathematics) (Hardcover)

    McGraw-Hill College • 1997 • oversized commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1997 • 698 pages.

  4. A first course in rings and ideals

    Addison-Wesley Pub Co • 1968 • standard commitment

    UPB note: year signal: 1968 • 309 pages.

  5. Elementary number theory

    McGraw-Hill, Higher Education • 2010 • longer commitment

    UPB note: year signal: 2010 • 448 pages.

  6. Messages From Within (N)

    Xlibris Corporation • 2005 • quick commitment

    It stands out because it asks for less time than many of the longer volumes on this page.

  7. Unikorn

    Xlibris Corporation • 2000 • longer commitment

    UPB note: year signal: 2000 • 436 pages.

How The Picks Compare