The scope and treatment of Dr Maxwell's two-volume course covering the transition from school to university is directed towards training students in algebraic thinking, so that processes do not become too mechanical. The explanations are full, the difficulties of the beginner are foreseen and overcome. Indeed, the course should prove excellent for the lone student as well as for the supervised class. Topics in part one include polynomial theory, equations, inequalities, partial fractions, permutations and combinations, the binomial theorem and series and determinants. The 'feel' of the book may be illustrated by reference to the treatment of partial fractions, which is novel in several ways. A theoretical exposition is given in some detail and varies from standard treatments in leading to a method of calculation that arises directly from it. The book contains many 'drill' examples, which the author considers essential.
