University News | October 7, 2011

Walter Isaacson, Harvard Overseer, wrote the official biography of Steve Jobs

Walter Isaacson ’74 wrote the official biography of the Apple co-founder, to be released October 24.

The authorized biography of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, to be released October 24, is written by Walter Isaacson ’74, CEO of the Aspen Institute, the former managing editor of Time magazine, and a Harvard Overseer.

After Jobs died October 5 of complications from pancreatic cancer, the book climbed to the top spot on the Amazon.com bestseller list.

Time canceled its previously scheduled print run this week and instead published a tribute to Jobs. A reflection by Isaacson is available to subscribers; it was quoted around the Web, including Jobs's explanation to Isaacson of why he wanted the biography to be written:

“I wanted my kids to know me,” he said. “I wasn’t always there for them, and I wanted them to know why and to understand what I did.”

Isaacson is also the author of biographies of former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger ’50, Ph.D. ’54, Albert Einstein, S.D. ’35, and Benjamin Franklin, A.M. 1753, the last reviewed by Baird professor of science emeritus Dudley Herschbach for Harvard Magazine.

You might also like

Johnston Gate at Harvard University with green foliage behind it

The University has pushed the adoption of AI into teaching and operations, but faculty resistance is growing louder.

Arched doorway with a decorative window above, labeled "University Hall," surrounded by stone.

The division is launching a new fundraising effort to support 50 additional students.

Two men hold up a red banner with "2030" written on it in white in a wood paneled room

Due to rain, the University held dual Convocation ceremonies for the Class of 2030 in Sanders Theatre.

Most popular

Four men in a small boat struggle with rough water, one lying down and others watching.

The 1884 Cannibalism-at-Sea Case That Still Has Harvard Talking

The Queen v. Dudley and Stephens changed the course of legal history. Here’s why it’s been fodder for countless classroom debates.

White House and Harvard University buildings split diagonally with contrasting colors.

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Ellen Langer at home, with her dogs and her own painting of a dog.

Mindfulness—the unconventional research of psychologist Ellen Langer

Psychologist Ellen Langer's unconventional research. Plus, read about applying mindfulness techniques to eating.

Explore More From Current Issue

Decorative wrought iron gate framed by leafy branches, captured in sepia tones.

Former Indiana University president Thomas Ehrlich looks back on curriculum, co-education, and other major trends.

Caricature of a young man in front of red doors, wearing a green striped sweater.

Harvard History

In 1954, Gregory Corso moved into Eliot House. How he stayed there is a literary legend.

A busy classroom filled with students working at computers, colorful decor, and a bright atmosphere.

Technology

In 2004, a frenzy spread across Harvard Yard in days. Four billion users later, we are only just catching up.