Steve Wozniak, Inventor of the Apple Computer [Hardcover]

Martha E. Kendall (Author), Steve Wozniak (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

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.

From Booklist

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

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 11 and up
  
• Hardcover: 112 pages
• Publisher: Walker & Co; 1st edition (January 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802783414
• ISBN-13: 978-0802783417
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,806,418 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Steve Wozniak, Inventor of the Apple Computer, May 26, 2000

By 

A Customer - See all my reviews

This review is from: Steve Wozniak, Inventor of the Apple Computer (Paperback)

This book is perfect for a school book report! It is both interesting and easy to read. Though it is written for older children, it is sophisticated enough to be appreciated by adults. It includes many details about Wozniak and how he became involved in creating the original Apple computer. The author writes in an easy-to-understand style with touches of humor and details that make Steve Wozniak come alive as a "regular guy." Includes many black and white photos and a great glossary of terms.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A LOCAL LEGEND WHO JUST KEEPS GAINING IN STATURE!, October 3, 2005

By 

Betty L. Dravis "BETTY DRAVIS, author/reviewer" (Silicon Valley, CA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Steve Wozniak, Inventor of the Apple Computer (Paperback)

I live in Silicon Valley and love everything about this place. The story of the two STEVES is local legend and The Woz and Jobs are our heroic icons, people our kids aspire to emulate.

I became an APPLE FREAK in 1984 when I purchased my first Macintosh to lay-out my Silicon Valley Union newspaper. That little machine (with the 10-inch screen) saved me $1500 monthly in lay-out fees (with the help of PageMaker) ... and that ain't "chicken feed." Thanks, Apple!

That's a long time ago and since then I've gone through the Liisa, the Classic, the Quadra, and am currently using an iMac. I've written eight books with the help of Mac, two in print, one due out in November, 2005. Thanks, Steves!

But as great as I think the computers are, the men behind them are even greater. I don't know Jobs, but I've met The Woz on several occasions and he is not only the brains behind Apple, he's a "genuinely good, caring man." Ask anyone in the Valley about him. As one little example, he unselfishly allowed me to use him as a character in my kids book, THE TOONIES INVADE SILICON VALLEY, and it's a riot to read about him romping around with cartoon characters and real kids trying to save the world from the "bad" Toonies. That's just one example of his generosity; he has contributed to many charitable and educational institutions in Silicon Valley and beyond. Thanks, Woz!

One other thing I admire about Steve Wozniak is that he has always loved to tell jokes (and, YES, to pull practical jokes on people too). I've been trying to locate a joke book he wrote years ago. Go, Woz!

To learn about this remarkable man, from age 11 when he built his first computer, read this book. It's an interesting, informative reading pleasure.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Steve Wozniak, a living legend, April 3, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Steve Wozniak: Inventor of the Apple Computer (Library Binding)

I have never used an Apple and I never will! That said Steve Wozniak contribution to the world cannot be overstated. The author has put together a simple, informative and easy to read book on Mr Wozniak. She chronicles his exploits from early childhood up until the current day. Yes, there is plenty of Apple info and history for those diehard fans.

What grabbed me most was the man behind the story. You can't help but love the guy. As well as being a genius he emerges as truly great human being with all the best qualities that we can aspire to as individuals (among which I rank warmth, generosity, kindness, consideration and caring).

I liked this book so much I bought 3 copies, one for each of my kids.

Woz, I thank you.

Andy Westphal