A History of Math

My children’s book Wie die Mathematik in die Welt kam (How Math Came to Be) features a cross-over between hand drawings and collage to illustrate German author Rainer Kirsch’s whimsical poem from 1986.

It tells the story in funny verse of how things developed from the number one to higher mathematics, physics, and the world we live in today.

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Rainer Kirsch Oliver Weiss Wie die Mathematik in die Welt kam kinderbuch kinder buch bücher books children books for children Kinderbuch Kinderbücher Eulenspiegel Verlag handmade collage collage collage art analog collage collage artist cut and paste paper collage dada dadaism surrealism mixed-media mixed-media collage collage gallery surreal collage collage art handcut collage collage artwork mathematics mathematik rainer kirsch book illustrations Titeldesign Buchcover covers designs Titelbildgestaltung Buchtitel Coverentwicklung Coverdesigns Titel Buchverlag Bücher
Children’s Book on Mathe­matics

TAKEAWAYS:

  • A Whimsical History of Numbers: Based on a classic poem by Rainer Kirsch, this playful narrative traces the journey of mathematics from the era of mammoth hunters to the bustling markets of Mesopotamia and beyond.
  • Artistic Mixed-Media Landscapes: Rich, colorful collages blend hand drawings with intricate textures to turn abstract concepts into compelling imagery that brings the history of humanity to life.
  • Mathematics for Everyone: With funny verses and a captivating visual style, the book explores why numbers are essential to our world, making the wonders of physics and logic accessible even to die-hard mathphobes.
Catching only one fish or two makes a difference
Roman numbers at breaking point
Egyptian pharao discovers the logic behind fractions
Aqueducts on the Nile
Hieroglyphics taught at university
Using astronomy for trading purposes