【Book Review】The Imitation Game

The Imitation Game

    I received a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher to make an honest review. Great thanks to NetGallery.com and Abrams ComicArts

    I have not seen the movie about Alan Turing, however, I do have a basic knowledge about his life and all of his great achievements. The reason why I pick up this book is that I want to learn more about his life in details. I have to say that I am not satisfied with this book, so I give it a four-star rating (more likely to be 3.5 stars). Here is what I think.

    The first problem that I have about this book is the illustration. I have some preferences when it comes to the artwork of graphic novels. Unfortunately, the illustration of this book is absolutely not one of my favorites. Even though I am well aware of the fact that this should be only a matter of differences in tastes, I still cannot enjoy the artwork. Therefore, I give it three stars as for the art.

    The second problem that I have about the book is its way of telling the story. After reading the book, I can clearly tell that the author must have done some thorough researches of Alan Turing. I just cannot appreciate the fact that the author uses Alan Turing’s relatives or friends to make interviews or some sorts in order to tell Turing’s life story. I guess some people may find it quite intriguing, and it’s indeed a special way to learn how Turing is seen from other people’s perspectives. However, in my opinion, I am kind of perplexed when I read those interviews. I am rather confused that delighted to read the interview parts.

    I still highly recommend this graphic novel while I have some issues with it. There are many great parts of the book which I think will overweigh its problematic parts. People who enjoy the movie or the life of Alan Turing or simply the history of computer science will develop pleasure reading this book. Here is what I thought about this book: a qualified memoir of a tragic but talented and great man.