13. On The Edge: The Spectacular Rise and Fall of Commodore

Author: Brian Bagnall

This particular is the story of Commodore, the very affordable family computer. This book starts at the very beginning of Commodore, when they acquired MOS Technologies that lead to the development of the PET. Then came the VIC-20 followed by the Commodore 64, which is known as the most sold computer of all time. The book even introduces the 128, the Amiga, and the end of Commodore. You will find out how such a successful company could fall so abruptly from the top of the world. It is a must-buy for the Commodore lover.

12. Hackers

Author: Steven Levy

The word “hackers” in this book does not refer to bad guys taking control of your PC or sending e-mail viruses. Hackers in this book are people who improved primitive systems by hacking electronics, thereby increasing their computing power and efficiency. The book explains how people such as Lee Felsenstein, Bill Gates and Steve Wozniak, pushed their limits and literally inspired what would one day be seen as the computer revolution. ‘Hackers’ offers a look at a very influential time in geekdom and is worth reading no matter what year it is.