The book begins by covering the various features that can be represented with rasters.  I found it interesting that the square grid is not the only type of grid, but triangle, parallelogram, and hexagon could also be used.  Types of rasters discussed included the simple raster, extended raster, quadtrees, and cellular automata.

A key element to rasters is map algebra.  This topic covers conceptualizing zero through two-dimensional space with grid cells and conceptualizing three-dimensional space with grid cells.  The map algebra chapter provides a very good introduction to manipulations.  A variety of operators and functions are covered.  For a more detailed section on functional operations, chapter 4 covers trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic, reclassification, selection, and statistical.

Chapter 5, 6, and 7 covers the whole modeling gamut.  Chapter 5 starts it off with how to think spatially.  Identifying patters within the data is covered.  Learning how to use tools such as landscape, literature survey, maps, aerial photography, and statistical techniques to identify these patterns.  Within modeling essentials, types of GIS models are discussed.  The models include those based on purpose, methodology, and logic.  With the basics of modeling covered, the flow of the book moves into conceptualizing the model.  This begins with defining your goals, adding the spatial dimension, and identifying data elements.  With the model conceptualized, chapter 7 shows how to carry out your model.

The book is summed up with techniques for conflict resolution and prescriptive modeling along with verification, validation, and acceptability.  The areas covered here include the orpheus land use allocation model, consensus building, hierarchical techniques, statistical techniques, and displaced fuzzy ideal.  Additionally, there are sections on model correctness, parsimony, and model acceptance.

Overall, this is an excellent textbook and great reference source.  Although I found it a little hard to read in some spots, I was able to benefit and apply many concepts to my daily work flow.  Also note that there is downloadable data made available that corresponds to the chapter concepts.

• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Chapter 2: Nature of the Data
• Chapter 3: Map Algebra
• Chapter 4: Characterizing the Functional Operations
• Chapter 5: Modeling Essentials
• Chapter 6: Conceptualizing the Model
• Chapter 7: Model Formulation, Flowcharting, and Implementation
• Chapter 8: Conflict Resolution and Prescriptive Modeling
• Chapter 9: Model Verification, Validation, and Acceptability

Check out this book for yourself: GIS Modeling in Raster