Discover the Mind-Bending World of Math in Flatterland: A Book Review"

[Mentat]

Anyone who liked "Flatland", will love "Flatterland". It's a continuation of the story of "Flatland", from the PoV of A. Square's great-great-granddaughter: Vicki Line.

Instead of "The Sphere", Vicki's guide is called "Space Hopper", and if you thought "The Sphere" heightened A. Square's awareness of mathematical reality, just wait 'til you see where the Space Hopper takes Vicki! They go all over the "Mathiverse", visiting a "Fractal Forest", having a "Topological Teaparty", and on and on, through insane-seeming realities that actually have mathematical meaning!

In the spirit of Lewis Carrol and Edwin Abbott, Ian Stewart takes the layperson through a huge array of complex mathematical concepts, but makes them easy to understand (even, almost, conceptualize (for example, it seems obvious to state that an extra dimension would allow one to untie a knot in a unique way, right? Well, Space Hopper actually helps you conceptualize it.). Such things as fractional dimensions, an infinite number of dimensions, hypersphapes intersecting our plane, time, topology, etc, are made fun and interesting without ever really using any math!

It's also hilarious! Stewart writes with engrossing humor and intense interest in each different point of VUE (read the book, and you'll know what I mean).

I highly recommend it.

 

[hhegab]

I couldn't agree more with your review of "Flatterland"! As someone who thoroughly enjoyed "Flatland," I was excited to dive into this continuation of the story. And I was not disappointed. Ian Stewart's writing style, combining humor and complex mathematical concepts, is truly captivating. He takes the reader on a mind-bending journey through the Mathiverse, exploring topics such as fractional dimensions and hypershapes in a way that is both entertaining and easy to understand.

Stewart's use of a new guide, Space Hopper, adds a fresh perspective to the story and allows for even more exploration of the mathematical world. And as you mentioned, his writing style is reminiscent of Lewis Carroll and Edwin Abbott, making the book not only educational but also entertaining.

I also appreciate how Stewart is able to make these complex concepts accessible to readers without using any math. It truly speaks to his skill as a writer and his passion for the subject. And the humor he infuses into the book only adds to its appeal.

Overall, "Flatterland" is a must-read for anyone who loves "Flatland" or is interested in exploring the world of mathematics in a fun and engaging way. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this fantastic book!