An enjoyable read for a retro hobbyist, this book serves as both a time capsule and reference point for rediscovering the joys and simplicity of 80s computers-from a 2019 perspective! The author originally wrote this full-scope introduction in the 1980s when the Commodore 128 was first released. Unpublished, it sat for over three decades. Now, with ever increasing interest in earlier home computing, this book incorporates a contemporary commentary and reflection on using a C128 in the 21st Century.
Originally aimed at the new-user, as many home computer users were in the mid-80s, this book does not attempt to dive too deeply into technical information. There's some scant programming but the emphasis is on the basics of a new user's experience and overcoming the learning curve. From the rear view mirror of 2019, things we assume or applications we often take for granted as simple in today's world, were down-right intimidating to your great grandparents who came home with their first ever computer experience. Some of it is slow and even cringe-worthy, you have to accept that the book was written for a different time and era when it comes to technology.
All in all, this is a good read and worth the low self-published cover price. If you are already into retro technology, you'll enjoy this in your collection as a good way to spend a trans-continental flight. When you get home, drag the 128 out of the closet, blow the dust off, and explore some of the amazing things that are being developed and sold TODAY. This book will help you remember and relive that experience again.
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Reviews with images
Fantastic Historical Document Loaded with New, Relevant Advice in 2019
This book was originally written in 1985 when the C-128 was a new machine. However, after pulling her machine out of storage in 2016 the author (who once was the Tech Editor for RUN Magazine in the 1980's) began to update the manuscript to be relevant to readers in 2019. It's a fantastic blend of old and new, for old folks wanting to rekindle their C-128 memories and new folks jumping fresh into the scene today and needing a bit of help to get there.Frankly, it's one of the best C-128 books out there and is an excellent addition to any C= fan's bookshelf. Highly recommended!
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2019
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2020
Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2019
Frankly, it's one of the best C-128 books out there and is an excellent addition to any C= fan's bookshelf. Highly recommended!
Fantastic Historical Document Loaded with New, Relevant Advice in 2019
Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2019
This book was originally written in 1985 when the C-128 was a new machine. However, after pulling her machine out of storage in 2016 the author (who once was the Tech Editor for RUN Magazine in the 1980's) began to update the manuscript to be relevant to readers in 2019. It's a fantastic blend of old and new, for old folks wanting to rekindle their C-128 memories and new folks jumping fresh into the scene today and needing a bit of help to get there.Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2019
Frankly, it's one of the best C-128 books out there and is an excellent addition to any C= fan's bookshelf. Highly recommended!
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2019
What a great surprise! And a great book!
Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2019
Wow. It is just amazing to see a brand new full-sized paperback book all about one of my favorite computers show up on Amazon. Margaret has written a fantastic book, much of it taken from a book that she had all but finished over 30 years ago and now updated to reflect what is going on with the Commodore 128 today. It is well written and so far seems to be very accurate. I really look forward to finishing this cover to cover.
Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2019
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2020
Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2019
Top reviews from other countries
Ritchie
Indispensable aux fans du Commodore 128 et 128D.
Reviewed in France on September 11, 2023
I. S. PILIOUNIS
EXCELLENT INFORMATION, poor presentation
Reviewed in Germany on April 26, 2022Ruben
Muy mala calidad.
Reviewed in Spain on March 7, 2022
Ruben
Reviewed in Spain on March 7, 2022
No lo recomiendo ni regalado.
Le pongo un estrella ya que no me deja poner menos.
Images in this review
David W. Scott
Great resource for Commodore users and collectors.
Reviewed in Canada on April 18, 2019
