Andy Hertzfeld

Andy Hertzfeld is a prominent software engineer best known as a member of Apple's original Macintosh development team in the 1980s. He played a crucial role in designing the Macintosh system software and created essential tools that helped define the computer's iconic user interface. After his influential work at Apple, Hertzfeld co-founded several technology companies including Radius, General Magic, and Eazel. Later in his career, he contributed to Google's projects, most notably as the key designer of the Circles user interface for Google+. His career began after purchasing an Apple II in 1978, which led to his hiring at Apple Computer in 1979. During his time there, he developed printer firmware and collaborated with artist Susan Kare to create the distinctive icons and visual elements that would become fundamental to the Macintosh's design language. Beyond his technical contributions, Hertzfeld has been an advocate for open source software, working with Mitch Kapor at the Open Source Applications Foundation in 2002. His work spans over four decades in the technology industry, bridging the early days of personal computing to modern social media interfaces.

Readers consistently praise Hertzfeld's detailed first-hand accounts of early Apple history, particularly in his book "Revolution in the Valley: The Insanely Great Story of How the Mac Was Made." Many cite his authentic perspective and technical knowledge. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complex technical concepts - Personal anecdotes about Steve Jobs and the Mac team - Historical accuracy and attention to detail - The collection of primary sources and photographs What readers disliked: - Some found the chronological structure disjointed - Technical sections too dense for non-programmers - Wanted more coverage of post-Apple projects Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.6/5 (200+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,000+ ratings) One reader noted: "Hertzfeld provides an honest, unvarnished look at the personalities and technical challenges behind the Mac's creation." Another wrote: "The short-chapter format makes the history accessible, though organization could be better."

Revolution in the Valley (2004) A detailed firsthand account of the development of the original Apple Macintosh computer from 1979 to 1984, featuring personal stories, technical details, and historical documents from one of its primary software architects.

Steve Wozniak Co-founded Apple Computer and wrote extensively about early computing history in "iWoz." His technical expertise and insider perspective on Apple's formative years parallel Hertzfeld's experiences.

Steven Levy Wrote "Hackers" and "Insanely Great," documenting the personal computer revolution and Macintosh development. His accounts cover the same era and personalities as Hertzfeld's work, with deep technical understanding.

Guy Kawasaki Was Apple's chief evangelist during the Macintosh era and wrote about the experience in "The Macintosh Way." His first-hand accounts of Apple's culture and product development complement Hertzfeld's perspective.

Tracy Kidder Wrote "The Soul of a New Machine" about Data General's computer development process. His detailed examination of computer engineering teams and technical problem-solving mirrors Hertzfeld's approach to documentation.

Robert X. Cringely Chronicled the personal computer industry's early days in "Accidental Empires." His coverage of Silicon Valley's founding era includes many of the same events and figures discussed in Hertzfeld's writings.