Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software

by Charles Petzold
Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software cover
Good Books rating 3.91
Science and Innovation
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Waterstones
Paperback • £28.99
Bookshop
Format • £27.54
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 4705
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780735638723
  • Publisher: Microsoft Press
  • Published: 2000-10-11
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 4

CODE by Charles Petzold takes readers on a journey through the fascinating world of communication and technology, revealing how everyday objects and familiar language systems like Braille and Morse code are intricately linked to the inner workings of computers. Through clever illustrations and accessible language, Petzold demystifies the technological innovations of the past two centuries, making the complex world of PCs, digital media, and the internet comprehensible and engaging for all readers. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a curious beginner, CODE offers a unique perspective on how our human compulsion to communicate has driven technological advancements. Petzold's narrative not only educates but also inspires, potentially awakening the technophile within anyone who picks up this book.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-26
great 4.40

Despite minor gripes, this book is highly recommended for its great content. It's praised for teaching complex topics with persistence.

This book is often recommended for its excellent content and teaching methods. While there are some minor issues, the overall reception is positive. It's seen as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding computer hardware and software. The book's ability to teach complex topics with clarity and persistence is highly appreciated.

Quick quotes

    This is a really great book.

    I highly recommend it to anyone who has the interest and persistence to get through it.

    It teaches complex topics with clarity.

Amazon · 2026-01-02
exceptional 4.75

This is an exceptional book with a writing style that combines passion, intelligence, and ambition to create a profound work.

The reviewer describes the book as exceptional, highlighting Petzold's writing style, which is filled with passion, intelligence, and ambition. They appreciate the depth and clarity of the book, making it a profound work that stands out in its field. The reviewer also notes that the book's ability to explain complex topics in an accessible manner is one of its greatest strengths. The book is praised for its comprehensive coverage of computer hardware and software, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the subject.

Quick quotes

    This is an exceptional book.

    Petzold's writing style and passion, combined with his intelligence and ambition to create a truly profound work, make this one of the best books on the subject.

    The book's ability to explain complex topics in an accessible manner is one of its greatest strengths.

Bryukh · 2023-12-28
challenging 3.00

The book is noted for its challenging difficulty curve, which can be both engaging and frustrating. Despite this, it is praised for its comprehensive coverage of computer hardware.

The reviewer points out that the book's difficulty curve can be a bit of a rollercoaster, swinging from basic concepts to more challenging topics. This can make the book both engaging and frustrating at times. However, they appreciate the book's comprehensive coverage of computer hardware and its ability to explain complex concepts in a detailed manner. The reviewer also notes that the book's historical context and biographies of computing pioneers add depth to the reading experience. Overall, they find the book to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in computer hardware.

Quick quotes

    One aspect, though, felt confusing – the 'difficulty curve' of the book. It's like a rollercoaster, swinging from basic to 'wow, this is tough.'

    It's like a rollercoaster, swinging from basic to 'wow, this is tough.'

    The book's historical context and biographies of computing pioneers add depth to the reading experience.

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2020-11-29
good 3.50

The book is praised for its ability to elevate the reader's understanding of computers, especially for those working on system software. It is considered a good read that might change one's perspective.

This review highlights the book's effectiveness in explaining complex computer concepts in an accessible way. It's particularly useful for those involved in system software, as it can significantly enhance their understanding of how computers work. The reviewer appreciates the book's engaging narrative and its ability to make the inner workings of computers more comprehensible. They also mention that while it might not change everyone's life, it's a worthwhile read that offers valuable insights.

Quick quotes

    It won’t change your life, but it’s a good read.

    Your understanding of computers would be up to new level after reading it.

    It was suggested to me that I read 'Code' by Charles Petzold.

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