Linus Torvalds: Software Rebel

Children's Literature

What is Linux? Is it a cartoon character? Some kind of foreign food? A facial tissue? Although the casual computer user may not know what Linux is, those interested in computer programming and free software know that Linus Torvalds is legendary. As creator of the operating system Linux and as a champion for the freeware movement, Torvalds has gained a place in the computer hall of fame. This succinct biography takes readers on a high tech journey into the world of computer programming and more importantly, a computer programmer. From his initial motivation up to his current work, this book gives insights into Torvalds' life, while also informing the reader about current movements in today's computer world. For older children who are glued to computer games or teenagers pondering what to be when they grow up, this informational book is highly useful in describing the life and work of a computer programmer. However, because of the highly technical nature of both the material and the vocabulary, this may only appeal to true techies. 2001, Twenty-First Century Books, $22.90. Ages 12 up. Reviewer:Leah Hanson