Product: 1680451839

The Linux OS is a free and easy to manipulate code system used on devices such as the Raspberry Pi (the computer, not the pastry), Arduinos, and more. One of the greatest benefits of Linux is that it can be customized very easily. However, this comes with the downside of leaving nearly all aspects of the code to the user, which can be very confusing. Make: Linux for Makers attempts to ease the confusion while showing the power of the Linux kernel. I started this book with effectively no prior knowledge about Linux. The book was able to explain Linux to me in a way that even a novice could understand. Furthermore, the book is very, very helpful for setting up the Raspberry Pi, which can be confusing since by default the Pi uses settings based from the UK. From here, it provides recommendations and alternatives to many different software packages. One that was especially useful was the desktop, which does not come by default. I personally chose Raspbian for my desktop, though the book explains that, while useful, the desktop is often times simply a waste of resources. The book showcases many of the shortcuts developers have added to Linux over the years, such as: sudo apt-get upgrade, which updates all software to the current version. A major benefit of Linux is that it can be modified in pretty much any way you want. Want to play mp3s? Done. Want to control a separate computer? Theres a module for that. Games? It has those too! This book is especially helpful since Linux can be daunting to those who don’t have experience with this system. You are dropped into a black screen with nothing but an empty line at first, and must build it from there. The terminal is the command center of Linux and with this book you can unleash its full potential! However, the book does have a few flaws. It does not explain how to set up the software after the download, how to connect the raspberry pi to a computer, or what hardware you will need. Thankfully, the internet has easy tutorials for each of these, so I feel these errors can be easily forgiven. Overall, if you have been avoiding trying a Raspberry Pi just because of Linux, this book will teach you how to tame and control this powerful system. The writer of the book has also made a Raspberry Pi emulator for those who want a kind of trial version of the Raspberry Pi on the internet. If you are still not sure about the Raspberry Pi, you should try it out! I give this book 5 binary stars!
Reviewed by Zander H., age 15, Gulf Coast Mensa
Rating: 5
1680451839
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