A lighthearted, sometimes irreverent introduction to the concepts, vocabulary and strategies of first year algebra. Designed for people who learn best by reading, it includes no exercises. Beginning with some pre algebra concepts, like working with fractions, it explains linear equations, quadratic equations and graphing in easy to understand, non frightening language. Ideal for people who think they hate math to read before they take the class or as a supplement during it. It provides an additional explanation to the confused and comfort for the fearful. For nearly twenty years this book has been helping math-phobes survive their most dreaded class.