The Art of 3-D : Computer Animation and Imaging, 2nd Edition
Many computer animation books focus on one specific program, and if any  historical information is referenced, it is merely to put the program into  perspective. While this approach is useful for artists who need to learn more  about an application, it creates tunnel vision for anyone new to the field who  is trying to get oriented.The Art of 3-D Computer Animation and Imagingescapes this trap by deftly illuminating the history of computer graphics and  animation. It brings the reader up to speed on current trends both in practice  and in research.Lavishly illustrated, this second edition includes color images from such recent  films as Blue Sky Studio's Oscar-winning short,Bunny, and from Pixar's  short,Geri's Game. The rendering techniques used inBunnyand the  animated cloth techniques used inGeri's Gameare discussed, as are  topics like advanced modeling, lighting, and shading and surface  characteristics. Advanced animation concepts such as motion dynamics, procedural  animation, crowd animation, and interactive animation are covered in chapter  12.Software- and hardware-specific issues don't come up much, but they are  mentioned since the tools that are available offer specific features that affect  the look of the rendered image. For the most part, though, techniques are  discussed in general terms. The burden of specific application falls on the  reader.Ideal for both the new and advanced user, this book is thoroughandenjoyable to read. Full of ideas and free of platform or software bias, you'll  want to read it while sitting in a comfortable chair rather than at a desk or in  front of a monitor.--Mike Caputo