Welcome to Fred in a Shed, a publishing company created to bring the innovative PYRIMATI™ puzzle series to life. Founded as a dedicated publishing route for these unique mental arithmetic puzzle books, Fred in a Shed is the realisation of a passion for problem-solving and mathematical creativity.
Creator of PYRIMATI Colin Veitch says “With a background in fields such as logistics, inventory control, and engineering—areas deeply rooted in mathematical solutions—I’ve always enjoyed the challenge of solving problems without relying on a calculator. In fact, during the early years of my career, calculators were a luxury, and mental arithmetic became second nature. This experience shaped my love for numbers and the puzzles they inspire.”
The idea for PYRIMATI™ started as a doodle on graph paper, evolving into a pyramid-shaped equation and eventually developing into intricate triangular puzzles. Driven by a fascination with mental maths and the desire to create something truly engaging, Colin designed PYRIMATI™ to offer puzzlers just enough numerical clues to work through the challenge using their mathematical skills.
Over time, the puzzles have grown in complexity, incorporating more advanced concepts like percentages, powers, and roots, alongside the basic functions of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Each puzzle is uniquely generated, ensuring no two are alike. To learn more about the puzzles and explore examples of the different formats, visit pyrimati.com.
The PYRIMATI™ series is a fresh, stimulating challenge for keen puzzlers, offering a unique mental arithmetic workout. Starting with Pyrimati Collection 1 and Pyrimati Collection 2, the puzzles cater to a wide range of skill levels—from beginners sharpening their arithmetic skills to seasoned puzzlers ready to tackle advanced challenges.
What makes PYRIMATI™ stand out is its progressive difficulty. Each book is informally graded, with puzzles becoming more challenging as you progress. Early puzzles focus on basic mathematical functions, while later ones incorporate percentages, roots, and powers for an even greater test of skill. Every puzzle is meticulously crafted to ensure a unique solving experience.
The first two books in the series are now available. Sign up on the official PYRIMATI™ website to stay informed about new releases and enjoy exclusive early bird discounts.
