The author's goal for the book is that it's clearly written, could be read by a calculus student and would motivate them to engage in the material and learn more. Moreover, to create a text in which exposition, graphics, and layout would work together to enhance all facets of a student’s calculus experience. They paid special attention to certain aspects of the 1. Clear, accessible exposition that anticipates and addresses student difficulties. 2. Layout and figures that communicate the flow of ideas. 3. Highlighted features that emphasize concepts and mathematical reasoning including Conceptual Insight, Graphical Insight, Assumptions Matter, Reminder, and Historical Perspective. 4. A rich collection of examples and exercises of graduated difficulty that teach basic skills as well as problem-solving techniques, reinforce conceptual understanding, and motivate calculus through interesting applications. Each section also contains exercises that develop additional insights and challenge students to further develop their skills.
This is not a classroom textbook geared towards learning. It is a dry, prolix reference. I love math...if you're not someone who WANTS to know math, this may do more harm than good for you. It doesn't convey what the math is accomplishing or the point of the math.
IMHO there's just no place for an average textbook these days; a textbook has to offer a brilliantly organized compilation of material just as exciting and engaging as what's available free on YouTube and math-oriented websites.