The other day, I decided to go to my local bookstore and look for some computer books. I’d read Jeff Atwoods’s recommended reading list (as well as the latest podcast from StackOverflow which mentions “must read” programming-type books), and I decided it was time to update my library.
Unfortunately, most of the books weren’t available in-store – which is a shame. I don’t like ordering big, expensive books sight-unseen – call me old-fashioned, but I like to flip through some pages before I commit to buying a book.
I was able to find some other books on the list – although not many of them struck my fancy. The great age of reference books is behind us, thanks to the power of the Internet (and Google).
However, I did find one book that I really liked – “The Design of Everyday Things.”
After reading it, I’m amazed that we get anything done at all in our modern world, what with all the poor design everywhere.
Even if you’re not a computer programmer or a product designer, you should read this book – it’ll really give you an insight into why some things seem frustrating (and what effect that can have on you). Also interesting – the book was originally titled “the Psychology of Everyday things.”
Very interesting!
