The manga guide to linear algebra

This book is the second collaboration for analyst/author Takahashi, illustrator Inoue, and Trend-pro. Between them, they have authored several manga guides over the last four years (e.g., The Manga Guide to Statistics, CH, Apr'09, 46-4500). The book's organization is similar to other mathematics works, but it also includes a prologue, epilogue, and a list of relevant online resources. The text incorporates the learning of math with taking karate and a possible romance between a tutor and the karate instructor's sister. The story form may be beneficial when students want to read ahead. Takahashi explains the fundamentals of each concept and gives examples that can be applied in the real world. The first chapter provides a list of professional areas where linear algebra can be used and talks about which ones use the field to its fullest potential. Chapter 3 introduces matrices and different matrix operations. Even though this chapter is only 20 pages long, the discussions are clear, making the basics comprehensible to students. Chapter 7 explains the importance of studying linear transformations. This book would benefit readers who are taking linear algebra for the first time, or those who may need a refresher in the concepts of the subject. Summing Up: Recommended. Students of all levels and general readers. K. D. Holton Tallahasee Community College