Computer Systems, Fifth Edition provides a clear, detailed, step-by-step introduction to the central concepts in computer organization, assembly language, and computer architecture. It urges students to explore the many dimensions of computer systems through a top-down approach to levels of abstraction. By examining how the different levels of abstraction relate to one another, the text helps students look at computer systems and their components as a unified concept.
This book was a fantastic introductory resource to understanding computers at a low level. The book presents information in a thorough and inviting way. The author seems to really have students in mind when he is writing, and provides tons of supplementary resources on his website for free, which were great for understanding and interacting with each topic. This is what textbooks should be!