Ben Orlin

Ben Orlin is a math teacher and author known for his illustrated books and blog "Math With Bad Drawings," which combines mathematical concepts with deliberately simple stick-figure drawings and humor. His work focuses on making mathematics accessible and engaging while exploring both foundational concepts and advanced topics. Through his books including "Math With Bad Drawings," "Change is the Only Constant," and "Math Games with Bad Drawings," Orlin has developed a distinctive style of explaining mathematical ideas through visual storytelling and informal language. His background includes teaching mathematics at secondary schools in both the United States and United Kingdom. Orlin's writing regularly appears in The Atlantic, and his work has been featured in Popular Science, Slate, Business Insider, and other publications. His approach emphasizes the creative and playful aspects of mathematics while maintaining mathematical rigor. The author holds degrees from Yale University and the University of Oxford, and continues to produce educational content through multiple platforms. His work bridges the gap between academic mathematics and popular understanding, using storytelling and visualization to illuminate complex concepts.

Readers appreciate Orlin's ability to make complex math concepts approachable through humor and simple drawings. Many reviews highlight his casual, conversational writing style that removes the intimidation factor from mathematics. What readers liked: - Clear explanations that connect abstract concepts to everyday life - Stick figure illustrations that clarify rather than distract - Balance of depth and accessibility - Self-deprecating humor throughout What readers disliked: - Some find the jokes repetitive - Advanced math students say content can be too basic - A few note the drawings occasionally make concepts more confusing Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,200+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,800+ ratings) Sample reader comment: "Finally someone explains math like they're having a conversation with me rather than lecturing from a podium." - Goodreads review Another reader noted: "The bad drawings are actually quite effective teaching tools - they strip away unnecessary details and focus on the key relationships." - Amazon review

Math with Bad Drawings (2018) An exploration of mathematical concepts using simple stick figure illustrations and everyday examples to explain topics from geometry to statistics.

Change is the Only Constant (2019) A collection of essays examining calculus and mathematical change through historical anecdotes, cultural references, and hand-drawn illustrations.

Math Games with Bad Drawings (2022) A compilation of mathematical games and puzzles accompanied by stick figure illustrations, covering topics from number theory to topology.

Steven Strogatz writes about mathematics for general audiences, with books explaining calculus, chaos theory, and mathematical patterns in nature. His style combines personal stories with clear mathematical explanations, similar to Orlin's approach.

Marcus du Sautoy explores mathematics through its history and real-world applications, focusing on symmetry, prime numbers, and geometry. His books connect mathematical concepts to art, music, and architecture.

Matt Parker explains mathematical concepts through mistakes, paradoxes, and unexpected connections in everyday life. He uses humor and practical examples to demonstrate mathematical principles.

Jordan Ellenberg examines how mathematical thinking applies to politics, sports, and social phenomena. His books focus on probability, logic, and how mathematics shapes decision-making.

Hannah Fry writes about mathematics in human behavior, relationships, and society. She combines data analysis with mathematical modeling to explain patterns in human systems.