From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-A short, easy-to-read biography of one of the world's richest men. The begin- ning chapter outlines Gates's childhood, and includes interesting anecdotes about early signs of competition and genius, while some people thought he was an underachiever. The book focuses on his many professional accomplishments as well as the issues and controversies that he faced throughout his career. Although he emerges as an influential person, Lesinski clearly explains the criticisms lobbed at Microsoft. She is objective about the controversies surrounding her subject, carefully presenting both sides. The book covers Gates's life up to January, 2000, and includes his philanthropic endeavors. Short enough to appeal to reluctant readers, it is dotted with black-and-white and full-color photos that add interest to the text. Aaron Boyd's Smart Money: The Story of Bill Gates (Morgan Reynolds, 1995) is less visually appealing and not as up to date.Sandra L. Doggett, Urbana High School, Ijamsville, MD Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

ANNOTATION

A biography of the man who created Microsoft, from his childhood to his battle in court after being accused of having a monopoly in the computer industry.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Bill Gates, one of the world's richest entrepreneurs, became fascinated with computers when he was thirteen years old. He was so good at writing computer programs that he was able to get programming jobs while he was still in high school. Later, Gates dropped out of Harvard University to form the Microsoft Corporation with longtime friend Paul Allen. Together, they pioneered the world of software and shaped the business into a multibillion-dollar corporation, making Microsoft a household name. Along the way, Gates has remained passionate about his work, his friends, and his family. Discover the story behind the man whose name is synonymous with computers and software.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature

This biography follows William H. Gates III from his birth in 1955 to his current status as the richest man in the world. In straightforward language, Bill Gates' childhood, his early days of exploring and inventing the software empire he was to build, and his personal life are revealed. His differences from other children and young adults are made known, but not over-emphasized. The controversies that have plagued his entrepreneurial life are given similarly even-handed treatment. What may be less known about Mr. Gates and is given wide exposure here, is the generous philanthropic approach that he, his family, and his many agencies have taken during his lifetime. Part of a series of biographies, "Gateway Biographies," which features both historical and contemporary notables, this book is highly readable and is illustrated with many colored photographs. With a timeline, a suggested list of on-line information links, and an index for easy information access, this book will be welcomed by report writers as well as computer fans who want to know the true story behind this industry giant. 2000, The Millbrook Press,

Children's Literature - Childrens Literature

This biography of Bill Gates is up-to-date, ending with Microsoft's recent legal problems with the Justice Department. It is one of a series of biographies from the publisher and A&E Television Networks. A tie-in with the network's Biography program allows the reader to view the subject of the written biography as he is profiled on TV. Such clever marketing may be influenced by the smart business practices of Bill Gates. The book begins with the energetic childhood of Gates, born in 1955. He is reading encyclopedias by age eight and interacting with a mainframe computer in junior high school. Only the first chapter deals with Gates' childhood and youth, but we learn about the personality and behaviors that shape the man. The story of his career and personal life is disclosed with appropriate photographs and details that carry a positive picture of a hard-working, intelligent billionaire. Gates' philanthropic work and elaborate, expensive home are described. Students will read how this Harvard dropout insists on hiring college graduates for his company. The book will inform and inspire those interested in the technology field or in entrepreneurship. Sources and a selected bibliography are listed. 2000, Lerner Publications Company, Ages 9 to 16, $25.26 and $7.95. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter

KLIATT

Bill Gates is one of the most famous people of the 20th century, and depending on the stock market, he's one of the richest men in the world. When he dropped out of Harvard, he was already a computer prodigy and destined to become an accomplished entrepreneur. Along with Paul Allen he formed Microsoft Corporation and the rest is history. The company appears in the daily news if not for its new software or ingenious ideas then because of its legal problems with the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice. This biography is just enough to acquaint young readers with Gates. It is well organized and easy to read. Pictures include one of his home, which features a dining room that seats 120 people and a library (Bill's favorite room). There is also a glossary that completes this essential addition to any YA library. (A & E Biography) KLIATT Codes: JS—Recommended for junior and senior high school students. 2000, Lerner, 112p, illus, 21cm, 99-34009, $7.95. Ages 13 to 18. Reviewer: Sherri Forgash Ginsberg; Duke School for Children, Chapel Hill, NC, July 2000 (Vol. 34 No. 4)

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