Books matching: mechanical computers
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- #1
Save:A dazzling, immersive steampunk classic that’s big on atmosphere and ideas, but less so on coherent plot or emotional connection - best enjoyed for the ride, not the destination.
'The Difference Engine' by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling is an alternative history novel set in a Victorian England where steam-powered technology has advanced to the point of creating mechanical computers. The book explores the consequences of Charles Babbage completing his steam-powered computer, the Difference Engine, and the societal changes brought about by this technological advancement. The plot follows multiple storylines that intertwine, involving intrigue, civil disorder, and a Sherlock Holmes-style mystery surrounding stolen computer cards.
The writing style of 'The Difference Engine' is described as detailed and immersive, painting a vivid picture of an alternate Victorian landscape where industrialism and early computing have triumphed over traditional political and social structures. The narrative is noted for its complexity, with some readers finding the plot convoluted yet fascinating, while others struggled to follow the multiple intertwining storylines and found the characters lacking depth and consistency.
Below her, in a neglected formal garden, leafless vines lace wooden trellises on whitewashed, flaking walls. From the open windows of her sickroom, a warm draft stirs the loose white hair at her neck,...1990•478 pages A thoughtful and lively celebration of a once-in-a-generation mind - ambitious in scope, rich in insight, and perfect for science-loving readers eager to understand how one person helped invent the future.
'The Man from the Future: The Visionary Ideas of John von Neumann' by Ananyo Bhattacharya delves into the life and work of John von Neumann, highlighting his significant contributions to mathematics, science, and technology. The author portrays von Neumann as a visionary figure who made groundbreaking advancements in various fields such as quantum mechanics, game theory, and computing. Bhattacharya's writing style intertwines biographical details with explanations of von Neumann's complex ideas, making the book both informative and engaging for readers interested in science and engineering.
not only sheds light on von Neumann's intellectual prowess and innovative ideas but also explores his impact on modern society. Through anecdotes and detailed explanations, the author showcases how von Neumann's work continues to influence areas like economics, computing, and strategic thinking. Overall, 'The Man from the Future' provides a comprehensive overview of von Neumann's multifaceted contributions, offering readers a deeper understanding of his genius and the lasting legacy he left on the world.
The scientists and technicians working on America’s secret atom bomb project at Los Alamos during the 1940s called them the ‘Martians’. The joke was that with their strange accents and exceptional int...2021•367 pagesA clever, jam-packed love letter to early computing, bursting with wit, historical fun, and meticulous research. Enjoy it if you fancy a brainy adventure, but steer clear if footnotes aren’t your thing.
'The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage' by Sydney Padua is a whimsical graphic novel that blends historical facts with fantastical elements. It follows the story of Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, exploring their real-life contributions to computing while also delving into an alternate universe where they complete Babbage's Analytical Engine and embark on mathematical adventures. The writing style is a mix of comic strip silliness, thorough research, and extensive footnotes that provide a unique and educational reading experience.
April 2015•320 pages- #4
Save:'Beginnings' in the series 'Adventures on Terra' by author R A Mejia follows the story of Armon, a gamer from Earth who finds himself reincarnated in a fantasy world with game mechanics. As he adapts to his new reality with the help of a fairy guide, he navigates through different challenges, forms friendships, and discovers his own strengths and abilities. The plot progresses smoothly without the typical 'Chosen One' trope, focusing more on Armon's personal growth and interactions with the world around him. The writing style incorporates humor, well-thought-out world-building, and a mix of real-world references and fantasy elements.
Sunlight pierces the lids of my eyes, disturbing my pleasant dreams. I groggily roll over in an attempt to escape the light but no matter what position I shift to, the annoyingly persistent light refu...December 2016•435 pages - #5
Save:An engaging and lightning-fast overview of how computers came to rule the world - ideal for beginners and the curious, but probably too slim for experts or those wanting nitty-gritty details.
Computing: A Concise History by Paul E. Ceruzzi is a book that aims to provide a brief overview of the major milestones in the history of computing. The book covers a wide range of topics, from early computing machines like the ENIAC to the development of the internet. Readers found the book to be concise in its approach, focusing on key events and providing interesting tidbits of information along the way. However, some readers felt that the book lacked continuity and was poorly written, leaving them wanting a more cohesive narrative.
Despite its shortcomings, Computing: A Concise History was praised for being well researched and well written. Readers appreciated the level of detail provided in the book, especially in terms of the history of computing. While some found it to be a dry read, others noted that it was a valuable resource for gaining a better understanding of how computing evolved over time.
June 2012•199 pages - #6
Save:The 'Monster Manual' in the 'Dungeons & Dragons Game' series by author Gary Gygax is a nostalgic and treasured piece of gaming history. Readers express fond memories of flipping through the pages as children, admiring the artwork of monsters and beasts. It is described as a neat book that holds all the classic creatures from goblins to dragons to beholders, making it an essential for Dungeon Masters and game historians alike. The book is praised for its simplicity and purity in art style, harking back to a time before computer-aided designs dominated.
The book is noted for being the first hardcover roleplaying book ever, symbolizing the origins of the best D&D system. It is a piece of history that evokes nostalgia and good memories for those who played D&D in the 70s and 80s, with readers reminiscing about the excitement of encountering the monsters depicted in the book for the first time. Despite some editions lacking certain details like experience values, the 'Monster Manual' is still highly recommended for its historical significance and its role in shaping the early gaming scene.
1977•112 pages
