The Cartoon Guide to Geometry - by Larry Gonick (Paperback)

About the Book

What's so funny about a trapezoid? Plus, what is a trapezoid? Cartoonist Larry Gonick unlocks the formula to understanding geometry in the latest entry in his New York Times bestselling Cartoon Guide series. For years, Larry Gonick's Cartoon Guide series has helped struggling high school and college students thrive in the most challenging courses. His books on algebra, calculus, physics, history, and many other subjects have sold millions of copies across the globe. Now Gonick turns his attention to the last big mathematical subject he has not yet covered: geometry. Moving from the most basic precepts of geometry--planes, lines, and points--to elaborate proofs, The Cartoon Guide to Geometry is a comprehensive primer on all the essential ideas of the subject: angles, triangles, area, similarity, and yes, the Pythagorean theorem. As with Gonick's other books, the material is carefully tailored to the curriculum standards and standardized testing guidelines of the subject, ensuring that students emerge from The Cartoon Guide to Geometry with a deep grasp of the key ideas. And Gonick's lively storytelling, wit, and beautiful art ensure that students will stay engaged with the material, as complex concepts are made clear.

Book Synopsis

A comprehensive new illustrated guide to geometry--from New York Times bestselling cartoonist Larry Gonick

What's the point of points? Where do we draw the line? If there are two sides to everything, then what's up with triangles, squares, and polygons?

Once again, mathematician-turned-cartoonist Larry Gonick uses his unique gift for witty, lively, and clear exposition to demystify another complex subject: geometry.

Moving from the most basic geometrical concepts--planes, lines, and points--through elementary postulates and to elaborate proofs, The Cartoon Guide to Geometry is a comprehensive primer on all the essentials of plane geometry: angles, triangles, area, similarity, and, yes, the Pythagorean theorem. Carefully tailored to the curriculum standards and standardized testing guidelines of the subject, the book provides innovative visuals that develop proofs and constructions with sequential graphics rather than single illustrations. The reader emerges with a deep grasp of key ideas--and has fun getting there.

Review Quotes

"In Gonick's work, clever design and illustration make complicated ideas or insights strikingly clear." -- New York Times Book Review

"Gonick is so consistently witty and clever that the reader is barely aware of being given a thorough grounding." -- Omni

"Gonick is close to being one of a kind." -- Discover