Not all of mathematics can be taught in formal textbooks. Just as an English course can be enlivened by selections from literature, a mathematics course can gain depth and interest from special readings. This volume can be read in conjunction with the SMSG First Course in Algebra or Intermediate Mathematics. It introduces the subject of number theory. Included are selections on (1) prime numbers, (2) congruence, and (3) the fundamental theorem of arithmetic. A section containing answers to questions completes the publication. (Author/RH)