Books published by publisher Parkwest Pubns

The fractal cuts in this book are used to create a collection of ten attractive pop-up cards. Each is made from a single sheet of white paper cut and folded according to a fractal rule and glued within its brightly colored cover. Just as fractal images gain evermore beauty and complexity by the repetition of a simple rule, so it is fascinating to see how each pop-up fractal cut develops step by step. Combining theory and practice in a satisfying way, this book will be of interest to all who have ever wondered about the significance of the ideas suggested by fractals.

The ten basic paper engineering mechanisms shown in this book have an almost explosive quality. Each 'up-pop' folds flat, but when it is eased out of its envelope, or restraining sleeve, it suddenly and unexpectedly jumps into a 3-dimensional shape. This element of surprize is most attractive and suggests all kinds of imaginative designs. The motive power for each mechanism is provided by a single elastic rubber band. With each example there are useful notes about the mechanisms and suggestions for the further development of the ideas to create original designs.

In this collection of models one tells the time from the sun during the day and the night. It shows why the moon has phases, why eclipses can occur and illustrates the reason for the pattern of spring and neap tides. Another mimics the motion of the sun and the moon across the sky on any day of the year and there is a moon globe which names all the seas and craters. Included also is a minibook which draws the ideas expressed by the models into a sound scientific framework.