By the numbers

In a spectacular demonstration of ways in which visual design can enhance the presentation of statistics, this presents bright, inventive infographics that encompass nine general types, from pie and bubble charts to chloropleth (i.e., color intensity) maps and word clouds. The main focus is on the natural world: five fast animals, plus Usain Bolt, are placed in their proper respective places on a speed chart; our planet's maximum theoretical rise in sea level is measured in school bus lengths, giraffes, and other unusual units. But human achievements, too, are recorded, including graphics on record-breaking movies, buildings, and roller coasters; select historical highlights; and recent opinion poll results (Is Bigfoot real?). Numbers and facts in a wide variety of multicolored text and display types add further punch to the photos and graphic images. Most of the infographics come with source notes, and this guide ends with leads to print and web resources, as well as design tips for aspiring data artists. Numbers have never looked better.--Peters, John Copyright 2016 Booklist