The Book of Trees: Visualizing Branches of Knowledge [Hardcover]

Our critically acclaimed bestsellerVisual Complexitywas the first in-depth examination of the burgeoning field of information visualization. Particularly noteworthy are the numerous historical examples of past efforts to make sense of complex systems of information. In this new companion volume,The Book of Trees, data viz expert Manuel Lima examines the more than eight hundred year history of the tree diagram, from its roots in the illuminated manuscripts of medieval monasteries to its current resurgence as an elegant means of visualization. Lima presents two hundred intricately detailed tree diagram illustrations on a remarkable variety of subjects—from some of the earliest known examples from ancient Mesopotamia to the manuscripts of medieval monasteries to contributions by leading contemporary designers. A timeline of capsule biographies on key figures in the development of the tree diagram rounds out this one-of-a-kind visual compendium.Lima was named one of the fifty most creative and influential minds of 2009 byCreativitymagazine. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the New York–based design lead for Codeacademy.com. Featuring 200 examples across history, this one-of-a-kind resource is my round-up's crowning glory. - World of InteriorsLima's argument is not only compelling, it is also convincing, for his visual evidence is powerful. - American Historical Association What an amazing and beautiful book! The most important analysis of visualization since Tufte, The Book of Trees reveals the origins and evolution of the branches we use to structure knowledge. These are the cultural and logical foundations crucial to any digital designer, as well as anyone who wants to be able to think critically about the visual world. -Douglas Rushkoff, author, Present Shock: When Everything Happens Now Sure to appeal to a diverse group of readers, the book beautifully combines art and science, as well as ancient and contemplӟ