Idea Man: A Memoir by the Cofounder of Microsoft

Paul Allen

Apr 2011 · Penguin Random House Audio · Narrated by Sean Runnette

About this audiobook

By his early thirties, Paul Allen was a world-famous billionaire-and that was just the beginning.

In 2007 and 2008, Time named Paul Allen, the cofounder of Microsoft, one of the hundred most influential people in the world. Since he made his fortune, his impact has been felt in science, technology, business, medicine, sports, music, and philanthropy. His passion, curiosity, and intellectual rigor-combined with the resources to launch and support new initiatives-have literally changed the world.

In 2009 Allen discovered that he had lymphoma, lending urgency to his desire to share his story for the first time. In this classic memoir, Allen explains how he has solved problems, what he's learned from his many endeavors-both the triumphs and the failures-and his compelling vision for the future. He reflects candidly on an extraordinary life.

The book also features previously untold stories about everything from the true origins of Microsoft to Allen's role in the dawn of private space travel (with SpaceShipOne) and in discoveries at the frontiers of brain science. With honesty, humor, and insight, Allen tells the story of a life of ideas made real.

Ratings and reviews

Hi paul.remember you wrote a book about you and me.it was are memoir of love.please meet me at noodle lounge tomorrow

About the author

Paul Allen is the billionaire technologist and philanthropist who cofounded Microsoft with Bill Gates. He is the chairman of Vulcan Inc. and founder of the Allen Institute for Brain Science. He also owns the Seattle Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers, and is co-owner of the pro-soccer team Seattle Sounders FC. He lives on Mercer Island, Washington. Visit paulallen.com.

Sean Runnette has earned two Audie nominations and five Earphones Awards for his narrations. He has also directed and produced more than 200 audiobooks, including several Audie Award winners. He has toured with The American Repertory Theater and Mabou Mines, and his film and television credits include Two if by Sea, Copland, Sex and the City, Law & Order, and Third Watch.