The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is proud to announce that Claudi Alsina and Roger B. Nelsen has been awarded the 2025 Beckenbach Book Prize.

Beckenbach Book Prize

Established in 1986 as the successor to the MAA Book Prize (1982), the Beckenbach Prize honors the late Edwin Beckenbach, a distinguished mathematics professor at UCLA and a key figure in the MAA’s publications program. This $2,500 award recognizes authors of exceptional and innovative books published by the MAA, aiming to encourage the creation of high-quality mathematical literature. The prize is awarded on an occasional basis, and eligible books must have been published within five years of the award year..

About This Year’s Recipients

In A Panoply of Polygons, Claudi Alsina and Roger B. Nelsen present an inventive and accessible exploration of geometric ideas. Their book invites readers into the rich and fascinating world of polygons, blending abstract mathematics with real-world applications in art, architecture, and culture.

Designed to be approachable for undergraduate students, A Panoply of Polygons also serves as a compelling supplement to geometry courses, offering both insight and inspiration. The authors’ engaging narrative style and clear, structured presentation make complex concepts approachable, deepening readers’ appreciation for the role of mathematics in everyday life.

The 2025 Beckenbach Prize Committee recognized A Panoply of Polygons for its originality, clarity, and meaningful connections between mathematics and broader human experiences, making it a valuable resource for students, educators, and geometry enthusiasts alike.

Learn more about the award submit a nomination.

About MAA 

The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. We accelerate our understanding of our world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes our lives. Learn more at maa.org.