The Micro Kids – A 80s Adventure with Spectrum, Commodore 64 and more is a new book about micro computing in the 80s, this is the second book written by Gary Plowman and published by Gazzapper Press. The first was ZX Spectrum Games Code Club book that we also reviewed. The Micro Kids book is described as fictional but with semi-autobiographical elements as many of the events did happen. That’s clearly evident as you read the book, you start to find yourself drifting back to that era as it really captures the romance of those days so effortlessly.

The story follows a young kid called Billy Twist who along with his friends get their new Micros during the 80’s UK micro boom. Going on trips to the local town center to spend their pocket-money in WH Smiths or similar shops of the time. I remember going with my mates to the local newsagent where they had a small selection of games that got re-stocked weekly, we would debate for ages which games to buy and in some cases pool our money together to purchase something more expensive, our pocket-money only reached so far at the end of the day.

As far as books go, The Micro Kids is a trip down memory lane, I must applaud the author here, I often sat staring into space recalling times I had long forgotten, how this book was able to recall old memories like that is beyond me, Gary’s writing style and the way he has captured his own memories in the book really mirrored my early gaming days, so I suspect the author and I are similar ages.

Those looking to re-live their youth in a bygone era of gaming will find this book has all the triggers you will ever need. Having said all that, the publisher points out this book is not limiting their audience to the older generation, younger readers can discover 80s tech and get a feeling for what the micro computer scene was like back in the day during the micro boom and I would very much agree with that.

So if you grew up with or you have an interest in the early days of micro computing when computers like the ZX Spectrum, Commodore, Atari, Amstrad, BBC, Oric-1, and MSX ruled the roost then you really should take a look at this book.

Highly recommended and available for less the £10/$10 at Amazon or via Gazzapper’s Website.

Review Score 8/10 RVG Rating - 8/10 8/10 Summary Thoroughly enjoyable read that takes you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.



Retro head and key holder of RVG.

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