Rating:  - The Bible for computer geeks
This book is a must read for any self-respecting computer geek or anyone who is even mildly interested in the history of computers. In age when the term hacking is synonymous with computer crimes and the computer world is dominated by Microsoft, it is fun to read about the glory days and the true meaning of hacking. These guys started with nothing but machines and built their own software tools from scratch, the things they did laid the ground work for a revolution and it has had lasting effects on every aspect of our lives. The only downer is that I felt that Levy should have made the entire book about the MIT hackers, they are the most compelling characters in the book and where doing the most important and technically challenging work. The rest of the book can't maintian the coolness of the MIT hackers, even though it does cover some interesting people. I think that Levey did a good job in not dumbing down the subject matter and he didn't try and over dramatize the characters and events. This is a book that probably has a cult following and if it doesn't it should.
Rating:  - Some good, some bad.
The first part of this book, dealing with the original hackers of the TMRC is great, it makes the book worth buying. Much of the rest is just historical revisionism where (much like Eric Raymond and the "Jargon File") the author chooses what he wants to tells you and ignores pertinant people, events and facts that get in the way of his picture of the history of hackerdom.
This is a good book but you need to take it with a grain of salt and realize that this is only Stephen Levys version of hacker history.
Rating:  - Hackers are almost philosopher, sure not criminal
This book contains a lot of information resource and even references to other resource/books.
I found Levy description of hackers life and point of view is excellent.
This book isn't designed to be read only by IT people (even if for those is a greay job), but it's great dealing with hackers philosophy (especially on the first and last part) which, in my opinion, cloud be applied to every-day life.
Well, hackers aren't criminal and the book outline this. After reading the book you would had learn their point of view, and maybe you would convert to their philosophy.
I gave him 4 star JUST because I would had preferred a longer talk on MIT period.
Rating:  - Interesting but narrow history of computing
It is interesting to read about what enthusiastic hackers did at MIT, but these are not the people who created the "computer revolution". That idea ignores a lot of talented programmers and engineers all over the country who were far more important and productive.
Rating: - A Gem with Inclusions
To be honest, it's been a number of years since I read Hackers, having read it soon after it's initial publication in the '90's. However, I have some lasting impressions, which may amplify, or at least supplement, several of the previous reviews. First and foremost, I found Hackers to be a facinating story - one with which I would think the majority of the public would be unfamiliar. Levy does an excellent job of documenting the lives and times of the early computer pioneers, and makes those seminal days live again - even for those of us who wouldn't know a byte from a bite from a bight. However, Levy has a tendency for hyperbole, and in Hackers, he gives that tendency full rein. Levy's prose are rife with phrases like '...these brilliant geniuses' and '...such giant intellects.' I'm working from memory, so those are not directs quotes, but I think you get the idea. The other negative impression I have, is Levy's unnecessary dwelling on his characters' personal foibles. I still recall with disgust (alright... mild disgust, but disgust, nonetheless) his description of - if I remember correctly - what were called "blatties." Over all however, I loved "Hackers" and would recommend it to almost anyone without reservation. It's a great read. Oh... there is just one more thing I remember; sweet and sour bitter melon (shudder). So when will the movie be released? ;)
|
