Comment cuire un 9 ?
- First published 2015
- 272 pages
- French
What readers say
3.64
2K ratings across the web 6 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
Reviewers widely praise this book for its original and insightful approach to making mathematics accessible to a general audience. Many highlight the author's light, engaging, and enthusiastic writing style, which helps to demystify complex concepts and challenge the common perception of math as difficult or rigid. A standout feature for many is the effective use of food and baking analogies, which successfully illustrate abstract mathematical ideas like abstraction, generalization, and axiomatization in a relatable manner. Readers appreciate how the book expands their understanding of what mathematics truly is, moving beyond mere problem-solving to reveal its broader scope and inherent beauty. It is often recommended for its ability to provide intuitive understanding and foster a stronger connection between everyday experiences and mathematical thought.
Despite its strengths, several reviewers point out significant structural issues within the book, describing it as sometimes rambling, lacking focus, or presenting concepts before adequately explaining them, particularly concerning Category Theory. Some readers, especially those with a strong mathematics background, express disappointment with what they perceived as a lack of rigor, oversimplification, and the omission of proofs, which they felt contradicted the book's own emphasis on strict reasoning. The inclusion of recipes, while appreciated by some, was found by others to be a condescending "gimmick" or not central enough to the promised "edible exploration." Furthermore, those hoping for a deep, comprehensive understanding of Category Theory felt the book talked about the subject rather than truly teaching it, leaving them without a clear grasp of its utility or theorems. The absence of a further reading section was also noted as a drawback.
Overall, while acknowledged as having structural and depth limitations, the book is frequently considered a worthwhile and unique attempt to engage a broad readership with the world of mathematics. It is particularly recommended for individuals who have previously struggled with math, those seeking to overcome "math trauma," or aspiring educators looking for innovative teaching perspectives. Readers with a high school level understanding of math will likely find it most beneficial for gaining a fresh and intuitive appreciation of mathematical processes and the philosophical underpinnings of the discipline. However, it may not satisfy experienced mathematicians or those desiring a rigorous, in-depth academic treatment of Category Theory. The book ultimately succeeds in fostering a sense that mathematics can be understandable and even enjoyable, offering glimpses of brilliance for those open to its unconventional approach.
Despite its strengths, several reviewers point out significant structural issues within the book, describing it as sometimes rambling, lacking focus, or presenting concepts before adequately explaining them, particularly concerning Category Theory. Some readers, especially those with a strong mathematics background, express disappointment with what they perceived as a lack of rigor, oversimplification, and the omission of proofs, which they felt contradicted the book's own emphasis on strict reasoning. The inclusion of recipes, while appreciated by some, was found by others to be a condescending "gimmick" or not central enough to the promised "edible exploration." Furthermore, those hoping for a deep, comprehensive understanding of Category Theory felt the book talked about the subject rather than truly teaching it, leaving them without a clear grasp of its utility or theorems. The absence of a further reading section was also noted as a drawback.
Overall, while acknowledged as having structural and depth limitations, the book is frequently considered a worthwhile and unique attempt to engage a broad readership with the world of mathematics. It is particularly recommended for individuals who have previously struggled with math, those seeking to overcome "math trauma," or aspiring educators looking for innovative teaching perspectives. Readers with a high school level understanding of math will likely find it most beneficial for gaining a fresh and intuitive appreciation of mathematical processes and the philosophical underpinnings of the discipline. However, it may not satisfy experienced mathematicians or those desiring a rigorous, in-depth academic treatment of Category Theory. The book ultimately succeeds in fostering a sense that mathematics can be understandable and even enjoyable, offering glimpses of brilliance for those open to its unconventional approach.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- Flammarion, 2016
- ISBN
- 9782081382138
- Language
- French
Original edition How to Bake Pi Originally published in 2015 · English · Basic Books









