Martin Gardner has published over 70 books and is the chief person responsible for the widespread interest in recreational mathematics. He turned 95 on 21 October, 2009 and celebrated by publishing another book. He authored the Mathematical Games column in Scientific American for 25 years. He quite possibly has introduced more people to the fun inherent in mathematics than any other person. I currently have twelve of his books, and occasionally reread one and get enthused about his topics anew.
The New York Times ran a special article on this special person recently. For more information about Mr. Gardner, see this article from Wikipedia.
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