Official Review: GenTech - An American Story of Technolog...

Post by **Kibet Hillary** » 16 Oct 2020, 04:05

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "GenTech - An American Story of Technology, Change, and Who We Really Are" by Dr. Rick Chromey.]

4 out of 4 stars

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GenTech: An American Story of Technology, Change and Who We Really Are (1900-present) was authored by Dr. Rick Chromey. The outstanding book was published by Morgan James Publishing in 2020. It comprises 328 pages and is divided into fifteen chapters. The book presents a novel way of looking at Generational Identity through the significant technological advancements that have shaped history. It also seeks to satisfactorily answer key questions like the definition of a generational cohort and how long each lasts.

The crux of the book is that generational cohorts are not merely shaped by historical events and birthdates but technology. Relevant and sufficient proofs were provided to support this argument from the start of the book to the concluding chapter. From the transportation and telephone generation in the 1900s to the current age of robotics, I was able to appreciate how technology not only shapes cohorts but also keeps people informed and affects every sphere of life. I am certain all ardent fans of history will enjoy poring over this book as they read how various technological advances and inventions influenced the past.

Looking at generations from a technological perspective has many distinct advantages. First, this method allows for fluidity between them. As a result, all generations are interconnected, and none can be isolated because this will undoubtedly affect the rest. For example, those born in the second phase of the ‘iTech Generation’ form part of the first cohort of the ‘Robotics Generation’. In this way, notable similarities shared between members of different generational cohorts can be explained. This would be impossible if generational identities were based on major historical events. However, the author stated that not all technologies find tipping points and therefore shaping the future. Some do not survive.

One of the things I liked most is the author narrated all stories with lots of humor. For instance, how he describes the advent of the remote control was hilarious. He says that previously he had been the remote control that his father would send. Besides, he was the telephone answering machine in his home during his childhood. His father or mother would just shout a command, and he had to be on his feet to either answer the telephone or change a channel.

There is nothing I disliked about the book. Nevertheless, I am still reflecting on how one becomes influential by being born into a political family. This was one instance towards, though. I also encountered one glaring error where it was recorded that Africa struggles to be a developed country. Africa is a continent, not a country. There were a few other minor grammatical errors in the book as well. This book is suitable for social historians and anyone interested in generational identities and technology. The language utilized was ordinary and accordingly making it conceivable for a general audience. I rate it 4 out of 4 stars. The errors above did not detract from the enjoyment of the book.

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GenTech - An American Story of Technology, Change, and Who We Really Are
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Kate Park · Post by **Kate Park** » 20 Oct 2020, 20:30

Thank you for your descriptive and informative review. At first glance, this book appears to be intimidating, but if the author adds a sense of humor to his writing, I may give this book a chance. It certainly sounds like an intriguing read.

Tablito · Post by **Tablito** » 21 Oct 2020, 01:58

The use of ordinary language in the text will enable readers without a history of technology to have an easy time.

Ogbara · Post by **Ogbara** » 21 Oct 2020, 07:40

Wow... A story of generational identity and technology, I love it. Thanks for your review.

CharlieMax1516 · Post by **CharlieMax1516** » 21 Oct 2020, 14:40

Good job on the review. Technology definitely changes the way of life for each generation. This sounds like it would be an interesting book. Thank you!

Fabulous mind · Post by **Fabulous mind** » 22 Oct 2020, 01:12

A book that shows the technological advancements and changes of a nation seems like a great book to read. I was enthralled that the author added humor in this book, and I'm sure it would be an enjoyable read. Great review.

Fabulous mind · Post by **Fabulous mind** » 22 Oct 2020, 01:14

A book that shows the technological advancements and changes of a nation seems like a great book to read. I was enthralled that the author added humor in this book, and I'm sure it would be an enjoyable read. Great review.