About the book: 2017 / What is coincidence? We ask ourselves this question when faced with unexpected and seemingly impossible coincidences. However, from a mathematical point of view, the chances of many events happening are much higher than any of us might think. In A Game of Chance, mathematician Joseph Mazur explores the extraordinary world of probability by describing complex mathematical concepts in simple, fun language. How to explain the fact that you suddenly discover a book from the school library with your signature at a used bookstore in another part of the world? Can a jury have absolute confidence in the DNA evidence found at a crime scene? Why did Abraham Lincoln have prophetic dreams? Using many examples of real events, Mazur shows us the inevitability of random events. This book will appeal to anyone who has ever wondered how the small decisions we make throughout life add up to an incredible whole. The book is a must-read for mathematics lovers, as well as all those who seek to understand the true nature of incredible stories..