This is not a textbook on school mathematics, but a collection of somewhat uncommon problems in elementary arithmetic, algebra, geometry and probability theory. Most of the problems in the text are grouped under various categories, as mentioned in the ‘Contents’. A large majority of the problems is of ‘Puzzle’ variety, i.e., clever application of elementary knowledge of mathematics and common sense logic, rather than any tools of advanced mathematics, are required to solve these problems. The arrangement of the problems does not follow any graded pattern; so any problem can be attempted without solving the previous ones. Each problem is followed by asterisk mark(s), signifying the level of difficulty, viz., easy (*), moderate (**) and tough (***).

The section ‘Historically Famous Problems’ containing 25 problems, hopefully, gives a glimpse into how the great mathematical minds work. Some very special theorems and results in elementary mathematics (normally not mentioned in school textbooks), which can be regarded as mathematical gems and curiosities, are also included in this section. The difficulty levels of these problems have not been identified.

Detailed solutions, sometimes with alternative solutions, are included for all the problems.

The list of problems and their solutions is followed by four appendices. Appendix I contains the general methodology of solving linear Diophantine equations in two variables. This topic is not covered in high school mathematics, but solutions to a number of puzzles finally require solving such equations.