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If you are an avid enjoy-er of steampunk works like The Difference Engine then you know of Charles Babbage. You may also have heard his name and the name of Ada Lovelace if you study computer history. Charles Babbage is responsible for designing a mechanical computer that was never built. Ada Lovelace is credited with having designed a program that would run on Babbage’s machine.
This book looks at the early history of computing from the perspective of the two teaming up and going on adventures. Each comic sees the duo on wild adventures involving the analytical engine or some other technology of the time. In addition to the adventure itself there is a wealth of footnotes and end-notes to explain the actual historical basis of the comic.
This book can be a fun way to introduce a younger reader to computer history. The stories are fun, and the information presented in a quick to consume, but still deep way. Even as a fictional set of stories there is still a lot one can learn.
Another great part of this book is that it helps to move Ada Lovelace into a better known name. She is considered the first computer programmer, and a great influence to look up to. Even in a time period with limited outlets for women she found a way to stand out.
I enjoy both the style and content of this book. It’s a great collection both for the stories and the information. Great for computer history lovers, steampunk lovers, and nerds in general.