The History of the Computer: People, Inventions, and Technology that Changed Our World

Ages 12 And Up, Grades 7 And Up

A strikingly illustrated overview of the computing machines that have changed our world—from the abacus to the iPhone—and the famous and overlooked people who made them, by the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of Women in Science.

Computers make our lives easier in so many ways—they help us do our work, get directions, check the weather, exercise, shop, and understand what’s happening around the world. But who created them, and why? How have they transformed the way we interact with our surroundings and each other?

Packed with accessible information, fun facts, and discussion starters, this charming and art-filled book takes you from the ancient world to the modern day, focusing on important inventions from the earliest known counting systems (such as the Incan quipu) to the sophisticated algorithms behind AI, space travel, and wearable tech. The History of the Computer also profiles a diverse range of key players and creators—from An Wang and Margaret Hamilton to Steve Jobs and Tim Berners-Lee—and illuminates their goals, their intentions, and the impact of their inventions on our everyday lives.

This entertaining and educational journey from the author of Women in Science will help you understand our most important machines and how we can use them to enhance the way we live. You’ll never look at your phone the same way again!

About the Author

Rachel Ignotofsky is a New York Times bestselling author, illustrator, and designer. She graduated from Tyler School of Art’s graphic design program and formerly worked as a senior designer and illustrator at Hallmark Greetings. Rachel and her work have been featured in many print and online media outlets such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Scientific American, Science Friday, Brain Pickings, and more. She is the author of Women in Science, Women in Sports, Women in Art, I Love Science, and The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth.

Author Residence: Los Angeles, CA

Author Hometown: Plainsboro, NJ