Yin Wang's Book Recommendations | Generated by AI
Question: What books does Yin Wang, the computer scientist, recommend?
Answer:
Yin Wang (王垠), known for his work in programming languages and compilers, occasionally shares book recommendations and opinions in his blog posts, social media, and curated lists. Based on available sources, here are some notable books he has recommended or positively referenced, often in the context of computer science, design, or personal development. These are drawn from his writings and fan-compiled lists of his comments:
Computer Science and Programming Books
- The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman
Recommended for English learners in tech fields as an accessible, non-technical book on design principles. Wang notes its simple language makes it ideal for building reading skills while learning about user-centered design. - Dragon Book (Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools) by Alfred V. Aho, Monica S. Lam, Ravi Sethi, and Jeffrey D. Ullman
Referenced as a standard compiler textbook, but Wang critiques it as “childish” after studying under experts like Kent Dybvig, implying it’s a starting point but not advanced enough for deep understanding. - Software Foundations by Benjamin C. Pierce et al.
Wang has read the first two volumes and appreciates its use of Coq for formal verification, though he criticizes its dense, unclear style and lack of intuitive guidance. - The Little Typer by Daniel P. Friedman and David Thrane Christiansen
Highly praised for simplifying dependent types, a complex topic in type theory. Wang calls it a breakthrough, noting Friedman’s talent for demystifying ideas, and highlights the ironic foreword by complexity experts.
Other Recommendations
- The Course of Love by Alain de Botton (also known as 爱上浪漫 in Chinese)
Wang recommends works by de Botton for insights into relationships and education, describing love as a mutual learning process and praising de Botton’s channel The School of Life for practical wisdom on personal growth.
Wang’s recommendations often emphasize clarity, depth, and practical applicability over hype. He has authored his own book, Ground-Up Computer Science, which serves as an alternative to traditional CS texts, focusing on foundational concepts from his teaching experience. For more, check fan-curated lists on platforms like Douban, as Wang frequently deletes older content from his sites.
References:
- English Learning Tips
- Chez Scheme Legend
- Yin Wang Recommends Books (Douban List)
- Ground-Up Computer Science