Book Review: Bayesian Statistics the Fun Way: Understanding Statistics and Probability With Star Wars, Lego, and Rubber Ducks

Abstract

Bayesian Statistics the Fun Way is an engaging introduction to Bayesian inference by Kurt (2019). His main goal of producing “a book on Bayesian statistics that really anyone could pick up and use to gain real intuitions for how to think statistically and solve real problems using statistics” (Carrone, 2019) is certainly achieved. Indeed, the book introduces Bayesian methods in a clear and concise manner, without assuming prior statistical knowledge and, for the most part, eschewing formulations. It explores Bayesian inference in a very intuitive way and with engaging examples—from UFOs to conspiracy theorists, via Lego, crime scenes, Start Wars, email click baits, and funfair rubber ducks—and constrains itself well enough for readers to start applying Bayesian inference from the word go.