HERTFORD, UK. October 7th, 2026 — Golden Slumbers Publishing has revealed that The Rubber-Keyed Wonder, its official book celebrating 45 years of the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, secured its crowdfunding target just 98 minutes after the campaign launched on 1 October 2026. Written by Kim Justice, the book is due to be published in April 2027.
The campaign launched at midday and passed its initial funding goal at 1.38pm. With its first-day target secured, the campaign remains open, giving supporters the opportunity to choose from a range of editions ahead of publication. The book explores the history and enduring legacy of the ZX Spectrum, including its impact on gaming, programming and the people who grew up with the machine.
Publication is planned for April 2027 to coincide with the computer’s 45th anniversary. The book revisits a defining period in home computing, when the Spectrum introduced many users to commercial games while also giving them the tools to create programs of their own. It explores the computer’s role in gaming culture alongside the personal memories and nostalgia that continue to surround it.
Among the editions available through the campaign is a 45th Anniversary Edition, limited to 480 individually numbered copies. Each copy will be personally signed by Crispin Sinclair, son of ZX Spectrum creator Sir Clive Sinclair. The edition comes with a presentation slipcase and bookmark, featuring foil detailing and an embossed Spectrum design. The 480-copy limit represents the total size of the edition, not the number of copies still available.
Ben Grant of Golden Slumbers Publishing said: “Reaching the funding target within 98 minutes was incredible, and we are grateful to everyone who has supported the launch so far. For many people, the Spectrum 48k was their first experience of gaming or programming. This book is an opportunity to revisit that history and the lasting connection people have with the machine.”
The Kickstarter campaign remains open following the initial funding milestone. Further information about the available editions, rewards and planned publication schedule can be found on the campaign page.
