Jordan Ellenberg

Jordan Ellenberg is a mathematician, professor, and author who explores the intersection of mathematics and everyday life. As the John D. MacArthur Professor of Mathematics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he has contributed extensively to academic research in number theory and algebraic geometry. His writing reaches beyond academia, with articles published in prominent outlets such as the New York Times, the Washington Post, Wired, and Slate, where he serves as a regular columnist.

Ellenberg holds a Ph.D. in mathematics from Harvard University and an MFA in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University, blending rigorous scholarship with accessible prose. His work often demystifies complex mathematical concepts, making them engaging for general audiences. Through his columns and essays, he examines how mathematics influences fields ranging from politics to pop culture, demonstrating its relevance in unexpected contexts.

In addition to his academic and journalistic contributions, Ellenberg has authored books that bridge the gap between technical mathematics and mainstream readership. His ability to translate abstract ideas into compelling narratives has established him as a leading voice in popular mathematics writing.
Standalone Novels
# Title Year
1 The Grasshopper King 2003
Non-Fiction Books
# Title Year
1 How Not to Be Wrong: The Power of Mathematical Thinking 2014
2 Shape: The Hidden Geometry of Information, Biology, Strategy, Democracy, and Everything Else 2021