FROM AMAZON: There was a time, not too long ago, when the typewriter and notebook ruled, and the computer as an everyday tool was simply a vision. Revolution in the Valley traces this vision back to its earliest roots: the hallways and backrooms of Apple, where the groundbreaking Macintosh computer was born. The book traces the development of the Macintosh, from its inception as an underground skunkworks project in 1979 to its triumphant introduction in 1984 and beyond.
The stories in Revolution in the Valley come on extremely good authority. That’s because author Andy Hertzfeld was a core member of the team that built the Macintosh system software, and a key creator of the Mac’s radically new user interface software. One of the chosen few who worked with the mercurial Steve Jobs, you might call him the ultimate insider.
When Revolution in the Valley begins, Hertzfeld is working on Apple’s first attempt at a low-cost, consumer-oriented computer: the Apple II. He sees that Steve Jobs is luring some of the company’s most brilliant innovators to work on a tiny research effort the Macintosh. Hertzfeld manages to make his way onto the Macintosh research team, and the rest is history.
Through lavish illustrations, period photos, and Hertzfeld’s vivid first-hand accounts, Revolution in the Valley reveals what it was like to be there at the birth of the personal computer revolution. The story comes to life through the book’s portrait of the talented and often eccentric characters who made up the Macintosh team. Now, over 20 years later, millions of people are benefiting from the technical achievements of this determined and brilliant group of people.
Revolution in The Valley
“Revolution in The Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made” by Andy Hertzfeld is a captivating narrative that delves into the fascinating and revolutionary journey of the Macintosh computer’s creation. Authored by one of the key members of the original Macintosh development team, this book provides a behind-the-scenes account of the technological and creative breakthroughs that led to the birth of a groundbreaking personal computer.
Hertzfeld’s storytelling takes readers on a journey through the ups and downs, the challenges and triumphs, and the creative spirit that defined the development of the Macintosh. The title, “Revolution in The Valley,” encapsulates the essence of this transformative period in computer history when innovation, passion, and a pioneering vision converged to redefine the possibilities of personal computing.
The book sheds light on the collaborative and dynamic environment at Apple during the early 1980s, showcasing the contributions of a brilliant team that included Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and other iconic figures. As the title suggests, it captures the revolutionary nature of the Macintosh project and its profound impact on the tech industry.
“Revolution in The Valley” is not merely a technical account but a human story, exploring the personalities, conflicts, and camaraderie that shaped the development process. Hertzfeld’s insider perspective, coupled with his engaging narrative style, brings to life the moments of inspiration, innovation, and even setbacks that characterized the creation of the Macintosh.
For readers interested in the history of technology, entrepreneurship, or the evolution of personal computing, “Revolution in The Valley” offers a unique and invaluable glimpse into the genesis of a product that went on to change the landscape of the computer industry. Hertzfeld’s storytelling prowess and firsthand insights make this book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the ‘insanely great’ story behind the making of the Mac.
My Goodreads Review:
Revolution in The Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made by Andy HertzfeldMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Revolution in The Valley” is a fascinating and captivating insider’s account of the creation of the original Macintosh computer. Andy Hertzfeld’s writing is engaging and insightful, providing a unique glimpse into the groundbreaking work of the Apple team during the 1980s.
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