Close to the Machine
In 'Close to the Machine', Ellen Ullman invites readers into the intricate world of software engineering, blending memoir and technical insight. She recounts her journey through the male-dominated tech landscape of the 1990s, where code becomes both a language of clarity and a reflection of the human experience. Ullman's prose reveals the beauty and chaos of programming, exploring the connection between technology and creative expression. As she navigates her own identity and relationships, readers are left pondering the personal cost of an increasingly digital age. This thought-provoking narrative challenges us to consider how closely we live with machines and what it means to be human in their presence.
By Ellen Ullman
Published: 2012
Start Listening
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
You might also like →
Digital Minimalism
Cal Newport
Algorithms to Live By
Brian Christian, Tom Griffiths
Preacher Book One
Garth Ennis, Steve Dillon
Steve Jobs
Walter Isaacson
Code
Charles Petzold
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
Yuval Noah Harari
Becoming Steve Jobs
Brent Schlender, Rick Tetzeli
Revolution in the Valley
Andy Hertzfeld
Andy Grove
Richard S. Tedlow
What Technology Wants
Kevin Kelly
American Mania: When More is Not Enough
Peter C. Whybrow
Organic Chemistry As a Second Language: First Semester Topics
David R. Klein
Generations
William Strauss, Neil Howe
Medieval Technology and Social Change
Lynn White (Jr.)
Autobiographies
Charles Darwin
Alpha Girls
Julian Guthrie
Paco et Vivaldi
Memoirs and Misinformation
Jim Carrey, Dana Vachon
Permanent Record
Edward Snowden
A Vast Machine
Paul N. Edwards
The Person and the Situation
Lee Ross, Richard E. Nisbett
Personal
Lee Child
Pagans and Christians
Robin Lane Fox
How Nature Works
Per Bak
The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant
The Wizard of Menlo Park
Randall E. Stross
Hannah Versus the Tree
Leland De la Durantaye
Book Collections you might like →
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Aileen Lee's Book Recommendations
Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
View Collection
Aaron Levie's Book Recommendations
Aaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a cloud content management platform that revolutionized how businesses manage and collaborate on content. He launched Box in 2005 while still a college student, and the company rapidly grew into a leader in the cloud storage industry. Levie is known for his innovative, forward-thinking approach to enterprise software and for pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. Under his leadership, Box went public in 2015 and continues to evolve with new technologies and partnerships. He is a strong advocate for cloud-first business strategies and frequently shares his insights on the future of work and the digital workplace. Levie is also a prolific speaker and writer, often discussing technology's role in the modern economy. His energetic and witty personality has made him a popular figure in Silicon Valley and beyond.
View Collection
Diana Kimball's Book Recommendations
Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations
Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Melinda Gates's Book Recommendations
Melinda Gates is a prominent philanthropist, businesswoman, and author known for her groundbreaking work in global health and education. She co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has become one of the world's largest private charitable organizations. In 2019, she published her acclaimed book "The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World," which explores the transformative power of women's empowerment. Gates is also recognized for her advocacy in promoting gender equality and her efforts to address social issues such as poverty and access to healthcare. Her work has earned her numerous accolades and a prominent place in the discourse on global development and social justice.
View Collection
Austen Allred's Book Recommendations
Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
View Collection
Vlad Tenev's Book Recommendations
Vlad Tenev is a Bulgarian-American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Robinhood, a revolutionary commission-free stock trading platform that has democratized investing for millions. While Tenev is not traditionally known for contributions to literature, his impact on the financial industry has been widely covered in numerous business and technology publications. His leadership in fintech has inspired many discussions and analyses in books and articles focusing on modern financial innovation and the democratization of finance. Tenev's work has been pivotal in challenging traditional brokerage models, making him a significant figure in the narrative of financial technology. His story and achievements are frequently cited in discussions about the future of investing and the role of technology in financial services.
View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View CollectionFrequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.