Computing: A Concise History: The MIT Press Essential Knowledge Series

TLDR Review: Computing: A Concise History

Published: November 10th, 2025

Pros

  • The compilation is welrganized and engaging, making it easy to read.
  • Successfully discusses the evolution of digital technology.
  • Provides a broad overview of computing history without excessive detail, suitable for quick readers.
  • Highlights important milestones and influential figures in computing history.
  • Contains detailed information about the formative years of computing and key events.
  • Introduces four significant themes in computing: the digital paradigm, convergence, advancements in solitate electronics, and human-machine interface.
  • Can be completed in a few hours, ideal for those with limited time.
  • Suitable as a supplementary textbook for computer literacy classes and introductory courses.

Cons

  • Some readers may disagree with the emphasis on specific historical figures, especially the undervaluation of Ada Lovelace's contributions.
  • The organization of content can make it difficult to read and retain information effectively.
  • Feels repetitive and offers little new insight or knowledge for more advanced readers.
  • Lacks depth and strong writing quality, which some find makes it a dry read.
  • May leave readers seeking a more comprehensive and engaging alternative.

Bottom Line

*Computing: A Concise History* serves as a quick and informative overview of key developments in the history of computing, ideal for beginners or those pressed for time. However, readers seeking deeper insights or more engaging writing might want to explore more comprehensive alternatives. If you prioritize a concise and accessible read, this book is a solid choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$18.80 at Amazon
How we researched this

About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 1 retailers to give you the short version.

Get ShopSavvy
ShopSavvy is totally free and works on all popular phones and browsers
Download ShopSavvy AppDownload ShopSavvy App

Compare prices across thousands of stores in real-time, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more.

Install ShopSavvy Browser ExtensionInstall ShopSavvy Browser Extension

Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.

Latest Deals

🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️

3 months ago
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️
🛍️

3 months ago