I picked up Hello Computer expecting one story but was delighted to read many. I was expecting one story because the author is my auntie! But the thing is, because Linda is my auntie my family experiences (of course) really influenced how much I liked this book. Auntie Linda’s autobiography showed another side to the one that I grew up with, which is her being a wonderful member of family. The side I read about in the book is her career.
As you might expect, Hello Computer chronicles the career of a woman in academia/tech who has followed the rise, and been a part of the modern world of computing. Professor Linda Macaulay experiences many challenges but is also supported by many in her career, especially her husband Patrick. Linda tells her story, starting from her family life all the way through to her retirement. Her life has been lived, and through so many events and inventions that shape out society today.
I really enjoyed this book: the writer guides you through many aspects of her life and especially her expertise as an academic. You always feel informed especially as she guides you through some of the complicated developments in computing. It was really interesting to find out how computers transitioned out of the hands of very few and into the everyday workplace and home, and Linda’s involvement with this is fascinating. I thought she provided a balanced view of some of the sexist behaviour she experienced, without it being sensational but hopefully helping others with sound advice. I thought the 7 steps to leadership in the latter part of the book was especially useful for those considering an academic career or leadership roles in any sector.
There were a few books and webpages that Linda mentioned which I might look into. One which really caught my eye is on professional facilitation by Schuman, ‘The IAF Handbook of Group Facilitation’. In this book it was described that in work meetings and facilitation there are several generic problem syndromes that can be encountered such as the ‘multi-headed beast’, ‘feuding factions’, ‘dominant species’, ‘recycling’ and the ‘sleeping meeting’ syndromes. I feel like I’ve met some of these already and need to know what to do about them!
The book was heartfelt, honest and provided sound advice. I’d recommend this book to anyone and especially women who are considering leadership roles and are looking for a role model. There needs to be more books like this.
A shorter version of this review was posted in goodreads.
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