To start with I must stress that I love reading about all things spectrum related, especially anythign that focuses on the best game ever created - manic miner. So, I guess, with that in mind my words here should be taken with a pinch of salt.

That said, I really did enjoy this book. It was great reading about the young Matthew Smith and I discovered a the odd snippet of information that I was previously unaware of - obviously I won't reveal what those were here but if you bear in mind what a speccy-freak I am then you should know it's not general knowledge.

My only gripes with the book are that some sections could have been expanded on. Also, a couple of paragraphs appear to stop unexpectedly - I.E. they seem to be building up to something then there is not a payoff. For instance, Bug-Bytes reaction to the young Smith showing off an early demo of MM - what was their reaction? There were one or two other examples. Perhaps some of the images could have been higher quality as well. Overall, I just wanted more more more!

Still, due to the fact there is not anoother book on the market that focuses on Smith exclusivly then I reckon any self-respecting speccy fan (especially a Willy lover - don't take that wrong way, please) should buy this book today!