Bizarro Google

Inspiration

In one click, Google easily offers a world of information at our fingertips. But that would be too easy, wouldn't it?

The inspiration for this project idea came from wanting to take my developer skills to the next level by building a Google clone using React and Google's Custom Search JSON API. The project is named after Bizarro, an imperfect clone of Superman in DC Comics. Like Bizarro, this is an imperfect clone of Google to say the least.

What it does

On the main Bizarro Google page, the links at the top will reroute you to the 1987 song "Never Gonna Give You Up," performed by the English singer Rick Astley, even though it was not apparent when you hover over the link.

The links on the bottom of the screen whip a snarky remark about googling to find the link you're looking for.

Input a search term into this Bizarro Google app, and look it up just as would with Google. The results offer links to pages that in turn help you find your desired google search.

How we built it

I built this using React, Firebase, Custom Search SON API, Material UI for the icons.

Challenges we ran into

The hardest part was coming up with the idea that achieves what it sets out to do, however specific, narrow, and short-sighted it is — and is technically challenging for the React newbie.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

I saw someone build a search engine and manipulate the results output, and now I have the stepping stone I needed to get to that point. I'm so excited to be able to get this programmable search engine working!

What we learned

I learned a lot about React, programmable search engine, and having fun at hackathons while getting what I want out of it — to learn, apply, and develop new skills.