The Functional Art: An introduction to information graphics and visualization

Acknowledgements

Experience teaches you that the archetype of the self-made man is a myth with roots in humankind’s relish for delusion. Life’s meanderings are determined by chance and luck, and the only thing we can do to funnel those factors is to ready ourselves to identify and seize opportunities when they pass by. We are the product of effort as much as we are shaped by the people who surround us. In this sense, I feel I am one of the luckiest individuals on Earth: I will start this book saying that curiosity is the most important trait any communicator should have. Therefore, I have to thank those who have ignited my curiosity throughout the years and have helped me focus it.

This book is, first, for my parents. When I was a kid, my dad ...