Friday 11 July 2014

Book review - Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson


It is not often that I find a book that draws me in from the first page.  Embarrassingly, actually sadly, I knew very little about the life and accomplishments of Steve Jobs.

He wanted to change the world, and wow did he manage to shift humankind with his art and genius through the Mac, Pixar, iPod, iPhone and iPad.

I am in awe - clearly he was not the easiest person to work with, but what inspires me is that he knew what he wanted and did not compromise on quality or his vision and pushed individuals and teams to achieve in fact over-achieve, things that nobody ever thought possible. Even though he was not an easy soul to work with, those working with him pretty much new where they stood; he had no problem to let those around him know if something sucked, or the best thing in the whole world - being honest was more important than being liked. 

The author - Walter Isaacson has captured the story with great sensitivity - it is however funny how he zooms in on specific details, e.g almost every time he refers to Steve's house he mentions that it was not furnished.

The life of Steve Jobs does make you reflect and wonder what you are doing with your life - what is the legacy that you are leaving that will change the world?

Highly recommended book 9/10

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