Steve Wozniak, Inventor of the Apple Computer

The story of the man who helped revolutionize the world of computers offers an inspiring saga of not only tremendous professional and financial success, but also of Wozniak's generosity and commitment to his personal values

Grade 6 Up-The story of the whiz kid of the Silicon Valley who built a computer when he was 11 and developed the revolutionary Apple just 15 years later. Today, the man is a multimillionaire, volunteer computer teacher, and doting father. This biography, written with the cooperation of Wozniak and family, paints a positive picture of the electronics genius, although unflattering characteristics surface from time to time. A self-proclaimed "computer nerd," the subject spiced up his school days by plotting and executing electronics-related practical jokes. He set off fire alarms by remote control and created a bomb scare, for which he landed in jail; his pranks, some illegal or nearly so, continue to this day. Paralleling this personal profile is the phenomenal history of the Apple Computer Company. Smooth writing, a wealth of anecdotes, and illuminating quotes add to the success of the portrait. Average-quality black-and-white photographs appear throughout. A lengthy glossary offers aid to readers lacking computer savvy. Since this is the age of the ubiquitous Apple, Wozniak's story will find an audience.
Pat Katka, San Diego Public Library
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 6-9. Kendall's entertaining biography of Steve Wozniak, the eccentric genius who revolutionized personal computing, is sure to fascinate readers. It is obvious that Kendall admires Wozniak's expertise and accomplishments, and her amusement at his antics and pranks definitely creeps into her writing. She provides detailed information about his early years, his collaboration with Steve Jobs and the creation of the first Apple computers in Jobs' garage, Wozniak's decision to "retire" from Apple, his philanthropy, and his many hobbies. The book is filled with anecdotes that paint a vivid portrait of an extraordinarily gifted but nerdy boy-genius who may never really grow up. Black-and-white photographs illustrate the volume, which also contains a glossary. Chris Sherman