A Topological Picturebook

by George K. Francis
A Topological Picturebook cover
Good Books rating 4.53
Art, Design, and Photography
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Technical
  • ID: 7412
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9780387681207
  • Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
  • Published: 2013-03-19
  • Reviews: 3

A Topological Picturebook is a unique and beautiful collection of hand-drawn pictures and narrative gems that demonstrate the chicken-and-egg relationship between image and text in mathematics. The book is praised for its ability to teach students to draw, see, and think about topology in a concrete and visual way, free of the formalism that often burdens conventional textbooks. It provides exquisite examples to build one's 'visualization muscles' and explains the underlying principles and design techniques for creating lucid drawings. The book remains indispensable for anyone concerned with mathematical images and their meaning. /n/n The book is full of amazing hand-drawn pictures of complicated surfaces and serves as the classic reference for presenting topological information visually. It has taught a whole generation of mathematicians to see topology as the original discoverers conceived it. The book is a visual feast that lets students and professionals alike see the beauty and complexity of topological surfaces. It is a testament to the power of images in mathematics and a reflection on their meaning.

Reviews
Amazon · 2023-01-01
inspiring 4.10

This book beautifully bridges the gap between generations, reminding older readers of the joy of hands-on mathematics while introducing younger readers to the tangible aspects of topology. The hand-drawn illustrations are both educational and visually appealing, making complex concepts accessible.

This book is a treasure for both mathematicians and artists. It serves as a reminder to mathematicians of the value of illustrating their work, and it helps artists understand the abstract ideas behind these illustrations. The hand-drawn pictures are not just decorative; they are integral to understanding the topological concepts presented. The book's unique blend of art and mathematics makes it a standout in the field, appealing to a wide audience. It's a book that encourages a hands-on approach to learning, making it both educational and engaging.

Quick quotes

    It not only reminds the older generation of the pleasures of doing mathematics by hand, but also shows the new generation what ``hands on'' really means.

    This book beautifully bridges the gap between generations, reminding older readers of the joy of hands-on mathematics while introducing younger readers to the tangible aspects of topology.

    The hand-drawn illustrations are both educational and visually appealing, making complex concepts accessible.

Reddit · 2023-01-01
excited 5.00

This book is highly anticipated by the reviewer, who is excited to dive into its contents. The blend of art and mathematics is expected to be both educational and engaging.

The reviewer expresses excitement about receiving a copy of the book and looks forward to exploring its contents. The anticipation suggests that the book is highly regarded in the mathematical community. The reviewer likely appreciates the unique blend of art and mathematics, which is expected to be both educational and engaging. The enthusiasm conveyed indicates that the book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding topological concepts through hands-on learning.

Quick quotes

    Chuffed to have received my copy of "A Topological Picturebook", by George Francis!

    Really looking forward to diving into it.

    The book is a unique blend of art and mathematics, where Francis uses hand-drawn pictures to illustrate various topological concepts and theorems.

JSTOR · JR Weeks · 1988-01-01
beautiful 4.50

This book is a unique and beautiful work that combines art and mathematics in a way that is both educational and visually stunning. The illustrations are not just decorative but are integral to understanding the topological concepts presented.

The reviewer praises the book for its unique and beautiful blend of art and mathematics. The illustrations are not just decorative but are essential for understanding the topological concepts presented. The book is described as a valuable resource for both mathematicians and artists, bridging the gap between abstract ideas and tangible representations. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to make complex concepts accessible through its hand-drawn pictures, making it a standout in the field. The book's reissue is commended, as it brings this valuable resource to a new generation of readers.

Quick quotes

    Bravo to Springer for reissuing this unique and beautiful book!

    It not only reminds the older generation of the pleasures of doing mathematics by hand, but also shows the new generation what ``hands on'' really means.

    The purpose of this book is to encourage mathematicians to illustrate their work and to help artists understand the abstract ideas expressed by such drawings.

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