A Comprehensive Review of ‘Thinking Functionally with Haskell’ (2014)

In this article, we delve into the nuances of Richard Bird's seminal work, 'Thinking Functionally with Haskell.' This book, grounded in the principles of functional programming (FP), emphasizes Haskell as a pedagogical language. Our review highlights the book's strengths, including its suitability for university courses, the author's writing style, and the mathematical rigor it requires.

Introduction: A Grin and a Textbook

Mentioned in the preface, Richard Bird humorously suggested that the book should be called 'Ivory Tower Haskell.' This witticism encapsulates the essence of the text: it is indeed a formal and thorough textbook aimed at university-level students, not a casual or introductory guide for aspiring programmers.

Teaching Functional Programming with Haskell

Irrespective of the book's playful title suggestion, 'Thinking Functionally with Haskell' is a serious academic pursuit. Its primary objective is to teach the fundamental concepts of functional programming (FP) through the lens of Haskell. In this regard, it mirrors the earlier work Dr. Bird co-authored with Philip Wadler. Both books serve the same pedagogical purpose, making them valuable resources for aspiring functional programmers.

A Joy to Read: Prof. Bird's Writing Style

It would be remiss not to mention that Prof. Bird has honed his craft as a writer over the past three decades. His ability to engage readers and convey complex ideas in a clear, concise manner is nothing short of a joy to experience. ‘Thinking Functionally with Haskell’ is replete with examples, exercises, and a clarity of explanation that makes it a delight for those willing to engage with the material.

Making the Case for Mathematical Rigor in Programming

The strength of this book lies not only in its pedagogical approach but also in its requirement for mathematical skills. It is explicitly intended for mathematicians who wish to enhance their programming skills through formal methods. The introduction itself contains a specific exercise designed to test the reader's understanding. If you cannot answer it, you are not ready for this book. This exercise is just the beginning of the rigorous concepts that follow throughout the text.

A Comprehensive Learning Tool

Another noteworthy feature of 'Thinking Functionally with Haskell' is its comprehensive nature. The book is designed to serve as a blueprint for a university course, offering a structured curriculum that covers the essentials of FP. From basic concepts to advanced topics, the book provides a seamless progression that builds knowledge incrementally. This makes it an invaluable resource for both instructors and students.

Conclusion: A Must-Have for Functional Programmers

‘Thinking Functionally with Haskell’ (2014) is a must-have text for anyone interested in functional programming. While it may not be for the faint of heart, its mathematical rigor and clear explanation make it an indispensable resource for those serious about mastering FP. Whether you are a mathematician transitioning to programming or a seasoned programmer looking to deepen your understanding, this book provides the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.