Matchstick mathematics: On Josip Slisko’s Fostering cognitive mathematics skills with matchstick puzzles

Marcel Danesi 1 *
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1 University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, CANADA
* Corresponding Author
EUR J SCI MATH ED, Volume 14, Issue 2, pp. 162-170. https://doi.org/10.30935/scimath/17899
Published: 12 February 2026
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ABSTRACT

This review article examines the ideas and analyses put forth by Josip Slisko in his 2026 book on matchstick puzzles, which provide a basis for projecting them onto domains of study such as math cognition with implications for math education. The book is a truly significant one bridging these two domains, showing how an apparently simple puzzle form enfolds deep mathematical ideas and principles that, when fleshed out, put on display what fundamental mathematics is all about. Above all else, Slisko’s book has specific important implications for math education, which will be highlighted in this review article.
Keywords: matchstick puzzles, matchstick mathematics, math cognition, math pedagogy, creativity, multiple solutions

CITATION

Danesi, M. (2026). Matchstick mathematics: On Josip Slisko’s Fostering cognitive mathematics skills with matchstick puzzles. European Journal of Science and Mathematics Education, 14(2), 162-170. https://doi.org/10.30935/scimath/17899

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