iWoz: Computer Geek to Cult Icon

Steve Wozniak

Oct 2007 · W. W. Norton & Company

About this ebook

A New York Times Bestseller: "iWoz traces the life and times of a brilliant, gifted...individual whose contributions to the scientific, business and cultural realms are extensive." —Bookpage

Before slim laptops that fit into briefcases, computers looked like strange, alien vending machines. But in "the most staggering burst of technical invention by a single person in high-tech history" (BusinessWeek) Steve Wozniak invented the first true personal computer. Wozniak teamed up with Steve Jobs, and Apple Computer was born, igniting the computer revolution and transforming the world. In iWoz the mischievous genius with the low profile treats readers to a rollicking, no-holds-barred account of his life—for once, in the voice of the wizard himself.

Ratings and reviews

iWoz is a very well written book which takes us into the mind of one of the tech giants of the modern era. Today's Apple is built on the foundations laid by Steve Wozniak. The impact he's had on our modern world with his inventions puts him right up there with tech innovation giants like Tesla, Ford, and Edison. The early years of Wozniak, where he came under the wing of his influential tech father, will be of interest to people who debate about 'fixed' vs 'growth' mentality. Wozniak had a head start in computer electronics as a result of this influence which led to him being called a child prodigy. This book proves that it was not because he was a prodigy, but simply because he had many more hours with electronics as a child. That in turn put Wozniak into a positive loop, where winning science awards in school led to him having a greater love for science and technology, culminating in the eventual birth of the Apple II computer many years later. A great read for all Apple fans.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Woz's unaffected style makes the book so entertaining. This plus the fact that he is an icon for engineers is the reason I give it 5 stars. There are many details in here even the Apple fan boy will not have known and quite a few myths are dispelled. Highly recommended.

Wow, after reading this book, I realise Steve Wozniak is brilliant, arrogant, simple, selfish, passionate, and a loner. That's what it takes to be a genius these days. His child like narrative style is a tad annoying, but when you persist with the book, his story is quite interesting. It's a great insight into the complexities, and politics within a billion dollar company.

About the author

Steve Wozniak has been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Technology and the Heinz Award. He lives in California.