Newton and Descartes were created by Ron Larson to help show that math can be fun. Ron wrote all of the cartoons. His nephew, Tyler Stout, drew the cartoons.

As with most cartoonists, the two characters represent Ron's personality. Like Ron, Newton takes almost everything in life literally. When Newton hears someone in real life using the word "fraction," he questions the definition of the word.

Both Newton and Descartes love math. Newton doesn't have a sarcastic bone in his body. He approaches every task in life with innocence and enthusiasm. Descartes takes a considerably more cautious approach to life.