Marc Andreessen and the Development of the Web Browser

Children's Literature

Though Marc Andreessen is only 30 years old, his work has revolutionized the Internet, making it accessible and usable for millions of users. This biography details his creation of the first web browser while still in college and his later creation of Netscape Navigator. In addition to following Andreesen's life, the book describes the development of the Internet and explains the ways in which web browsers work. Even relative luddites can follow the book's simple text and attain a new understanding of the ways our everyday technology works. This book is part of the publishers "Unlocking the Secret of Science" series, which profiles 20th century achievers in science, medicine and technology. 2002, Mitchell Lane, $18.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer:Rebecca Joseph

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-Tracy opens with an explanation of how Cold War communication needs led to the development of the ARPANET, the forerunner of what would eventually become the Internet. She then traces Andreessen's childhood and education, emphasizing his enduring fascination with computers. She also discusses his work at the University of Illinois where he helped create Mosaic, the first Web browser to make the Internet accessible to the general public, and explains how his disappointment with the handling of its marketing led to his development of the competing Netscape Navigator. She briefly describes his battle with Microsoft over supremacy in the Web-browser market and also details his latest Internet venture, Loudcloud. The author is admiring of her subject, emphasizing his creativity and philanthropy. Full-page photos of Andreessen and other computer innovators add little to the text, but there is a good list for further reading with both print and Internet resources. Although this book would serve report writers, it is often dry and will not hold the interest of general readers. Tracy fails to capture Andreessen's passion for the Internet or how his competitive nature influenced his legal battle with Microsoft. Daniel Ehrenhaft's Marc Andreessen (21st Century, 2001) provides a better picture of the man's unique personality and tells his story in a much more compelling manner.-Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.