This book is clear, witty, useful

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Professor Ian Stewart is with the University of Warwick, England, while co-author Robin Jones is with the computer unit at the South Kent College of Technology, England.

What kind of a book can we expect from two obviously intelligent gentlemen with a great knowledge of computers? Your first thought is a dry, dull, routine book that is understandable only to someone with a degree in computer sciences. To our delight, Timex Sinclair 1000: Programs, Games and Graphics (published by Birkhausen), is an excellent book for any Timex Sinclair user — whether a beginner or more experienced hacker. With surprising wit, clarity and humor, the authors provide refreshing refuge from the terrors of the Timex Sinclair Manual.

The book starts with the admission that the Timex Sinclair isn’t the most sophisticated machine on the market, but is an excellent system to get started in computing. Throughout the text, the authors sprinkle programs and programming examples (50 programs altogether) to encourage readers to start designing programs.

Chapter one starts with clear, precise instructions on setting up your system, hooking up the television, and other matters. Next comes a chapter on how to run prepackaged programs, the basics of BASIC, arithmetic, and a chapter entitled: “Heeeelllllppp!”

To break up continuity in the middle of the book, the authors have created a Timex Sinclair crossword puzzle. Finally, a comprehensive index allows the reader to refer back to special areas of the book.

This is the American edition of a book published in Britain as Peek, Poke, Byte and Ram; A program guide for the Sinclair ZX81. However, unlike many visitors from Britain, this new edition was completely updated for the North market. New in references and changes in Timex Sinclair technology were included in the revised edition.

The book is well designed, and contains excellent information for anyone digging into a Timex Sinclair computer system. Although we have not run the programs, the authors’ titles indicate some fascinating possibilities. They include: Drunkard, Sink the Bismarck, Monopoly, Dice, Billiard Bounce, Macy’s, Molehunt, Fruit Machine, Sinecurve, Brickbat and Linette (roulette played in a straight line).

Buy it! Timex Sinclair 1000 will make a useful addition to your Timex Sinclair library.

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