Manga Guide to Statistics, The Review

Manga Guide to Statistics, The

Publisher: No Starch Press

Authors: Shin Takahashi

Illustrator:  Trend-Pro, et al

Price: Softcover: $19.95 - Purchase Here

Available at: No Starch Press, 556 De Horo Street, Ste 250 San Francisco, CA 94107; Phone: 415.863.9900; Email: info@nostarch.com

Other Notes: Part of set of books widely used in Japan.

The Manga Guide to Statistics is a silly approach to serious math. A Manga-style cartoon featuring a middle-school girl, named Rui, holds center stage. As Rui learns about statistics from her tutor, so does the reader. Each chapter consists of a cartoon, supplemental text and tables, exercise(s) and a summary. The cartoon explains the statistical concept thoroughly, using examples relevant to the storyline, with all the drama and emotion expected in Manga. Extra tables and explanations are included after the cartoon when needed. The exercises in each chapter build on the examples used and cover the same topics. Complete, annotated answers follow each exercise. A short summary of important points ends the chapter.

This is part of an educational series very popular in Japan right now. In their intense educational climate, middle school students would be doing this kind of work. In most American scope-and-sequences, this material would be high school, coming after a solid introduction to algebra. Familiarity with the Greek alphabet and its use in math is expected. An appendix shows the student how to use the Microsoft Excel program to do the exercises.

This is a fun look at introductory statistics. Parents should be aware of the Japanese cultural influences. Also, the cartoon prologue uses the word ‘God’ inappropriately. I plan to use this as a gateway to talk about different cultures and religions.

Review by: Joy Toll
Joy Toll homeschools her two girls and one boy; she began with the oldest in 1995. She prefers a literature-based approach, gathering what works for her children's divergent learning styles.