Monday, August 13, 2007

Walt Mossberg

Walt Mossberg is the Personal Technology columnist for the Wall Street Journal.

I recently asked him what he was reading. His reply:
While I write about technology, one of my major interests is the American Revolution. I find it inspiring, both in a political and military sense, and believe it has had a profound impact, not only in the U.S., but around the world. It is simply extraordinary that so many amazing people, from different backgrounds, were able to come together to challenge and defeat the mightiest power on earth, in a principled struggle that was almost lost many times.

Over the years, I have read many histories and analyses of the Revolution, but am currently thoroughly enjoying a two-volume historical novel by Jeff Shaara that tells the story through the eyes of major figures like Washington, Adams, Franklin, and the British generals. The first of the books, Rise to Rebellion, covers the leadup to the formal break with England, from events like the Boston Massacre and the burning of the British ship Gaspee in Rhode Island through the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. The second volume, The Glorious Cause, takes the reader from the Declaration through victory. They are wonderful books.
In addition to the columns he writes and edits for the Wall Street Journal, Mossberg also publishes periodic interviews for the Journal and occasional blog posts at his website. With Kara Swisher, he co-produces and co-hosts D: All Things Digital, a major high-tech and media conference.

--Marshal Zeringue