Quick Take

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.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Revolution in The Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made

Introduction

"Revolution in The Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made" is a captivating book that takes readers on a journey through the development of the groundbreaking Macintosh computer. Written by Andy Hertzfeld, a core member of the team that built the Macintosh system software, this book provides a firsthand account of the challenges, triumphs, and personalities that shaped the personal computer revolution. With lavish illustrations, period photos, and vivid narratives, Hertzfeld brings to life the story of how a small group of brilliant individuals transformed the tech industry.

About Andy Hertzfeld

Andy Hertzfeld, the author of "Revolution in The Valley," is an accomplished software engineer and one of the key creators of the Macintosh's radically new user interface software. With his insider knowledge and personal experiences, Hertzfeld provides readers with an authentic and detailed account of the Macintosh project. His contributions to Apple's early success and his passion for technology make him an ideal author to explore the story behind the Macintosh.

Analysis of Views

A Different Perspective: Readers appreciate that this book offers a fresh perspective on the story of the Macintosh, focusing on the unsung heroes who made it happen. While Steve Jobs' role is acknowledged, most of the essays in the book are dedicated to the talented individuals who worked tirelessly to bring the Macintosh to life. This approach provides readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the project's development and highlights the teamwork and camaraderie that drove the Macintosh team forward.
Insightful and Engaging: Many readers find "Revolution in The Valley" to be an engaging and insightful read. The book's anecdotal nature, with its collection of stories and recollections, allows readers to connect with the characters and their experiences. The stories are relatable and often humorous, making it a fun read for both technical and non-technical individuals. The inclusion of images and photographs adds depth to the narrative and enhances readers' understanding of the historical context.
Cultural and Technological Changes: Readers appreciate the book's exploration of how Apple as a company evolved over time as it grew into a multi-million dollar business. The book also delves into how hierarchies and managerial changes impacted the Macintosh team's culture and ultimately led to the departure of key contributors. These insights provide a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by companies during periods of rapid growth and change.
Fun Facts and Nostalgia: "Revolution in The Valley" offers numerous fun facts and interesting insights into the development of the Macintosh. Readers enjoy learning about the small team of 15 people who built most of the hardware and software for the Macintosh, their dedication to working long hours, and their camaraderie in overcoming obstacles. The book also evokes nostalgia for a time when computers were more hands-on and innovation was driven by passionate individuals rather than large corporations.
Limited Relevance for Non-Technical Readers: Some readers find that certain sections of the book may be challenging to understand due to their technical nature. While Hertzfeld does his best to explain complex concepts, readers without a strong background in computer science may struggle to fully comprehend certain aspects of the book. This limitation may make it less accessible to those who are not familiar with technical details.

Reasons for Recommendation

Insider Perspective: Andy Hertzfeld's insider knowledge and personal experiences make "Revolution in The Valley" a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the story behind the Macintosh. His firsthand accounts provide readers with an authentic and detailed perspective on the project's development, making it a recommended read for anyone interested in Apple's history or technology in general.
Engaging Storytelling: The book's anecdotal nature and engaging storytelling style make it a compelling read for both technical and non-technical readers. Hertzfeld's ability to weave together stories from different perspectives creates a cohesive narrative that captures readers' attention from start to finish.
Insights into Apple's Evolution: "Revolution in The Valley" offers valuable insights into Apple's evolution as a company, including its growth into a multi-million dollar business and the impact of hierarchies on its culture. These insights provide readers with a deeper understanding of how companies navigate rapid growth and change while maintaining their core values and principles.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Technical Challenges: Some readers may find certain sections of the book challenging due to their technical nature. While Hertzfeld does his best to explain complex concepts, readers without a strong background in computer science may struggle to fully comprehend certain aspects of the book. This limitation may make it less accessible for those who are not familiar with technical details.
Limited Relevance for Non-Technical Readers: Readers who are not familiar with technical details may find certain sections of the book less engaging or challenging to understand. While Hertzfeld does his best to explain complex concepts, some readers may find it difficult to follow certain sections due to their technical nature. This limitation may make it less appealing for those who are not interested in technical aspects of computer history.

Conclusion

"Revolution in The Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made" is a captivating book that offers readers an insider's perspective on the development of Apple's groundbreaking Macintosh computer. With its engaging storytelling, valuable insights into Apple's evolution, and fun facts about the Macintosh team, this book provides a unique glimpse into one of technology's most significant milestones. While some readers may find certain sections challenging due to their technical nature, those who appreciate authentic accounts and enjoy reading about innovation will find this book highly rewarding. Overall, "Revolution in The Valley" is a recommended read for anyone interested in Apple's history or technology in general, offering a fascinating exploration of how a small group of brilliant individuals transformed the tech industry forever.