Years ago I came across two fascinating, but old and out of print books that go very in depth into math prodigies and their methods. You can probably get these books easily by using your local libraries interlibrary-loan system (they can borrow books from universities and other libraries around the country, for you). The first book was called The Great Mental Calculators: The Psychology, Methods, and Lives of Calculating Prodigies Past and Present by Steven B. Smith. The second was called Mental Prodigies by Fred Barlow. Lastly, I have to also recommend the book Speed Mathematics: Secret Skills for Quick Calculation by Bill Handley. I hope this post was helpful for those looking for more inspiration and techniques.
I just bought this book and am in the process of reading it.
I agree that this is a must-have book!
Ya, it is a very fascinating book! If I remember correctly, the author also provides lots of examples and advice on how to use the same techniques that the math prodigies used. Have fun reading i! 
Thanks to our dear forum member Greymatters, this book can be read online:
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Wow! Fantasticccc! Thanks dear forum member Greymatters!
You’re welcome!
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