... I tell you that this is a book filled with stories of love. It is, of course, more than that. It is a book about resilience, struggle, persistence, obstacles, grit, barriers, determination, failure, success, and so many other things. But at its core, I see the common theme of love. I read these as stories of people who love mathematics so much that they have endured heartbreaking struggle within systems that are built to keep them out. They have overcome obstacles that many of us can only imagine, just for the privilege to do math. These are also stories of people who helped them to succeed, through large and small acts of kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness; in other words: love. And this is why I think you should read this book.

Wow! This is a powerful book that addresses a long-standing elephant in the mathematics room. Many people learning math ask “Why is math so hard for me while everyone else understands it?” and “Am I good enough to succeed in math?” In answering these questions the book shares personal stories from many now-accomplished mathematicians affirming that “You are not alone; math is hard for everyone” and “Yes; you are good enough.” Along the way the book addresses other issues such as biases and prejudices that mathematicians encounter, and it provides inspiration and emotional support for mathematicians ranging from the experienced professor to the struggling mathematics student.

This book is a remarkable collection of personal reflections on what it means to be, and to become, a mathematician. Each story reveals a unique and refreshing understanding of the barriers erected by our cultural focus on “math is hard.” Indeed, mathematics is hard, and so are many other things—as Stephen Kennedy points out in his cogent introduction. This collection of essays offers inspiration to students of mathematics and to mathematicians at every career stage.