Read his book, if you haven't yet. He's honest, likable guy, always curious (and hungry) to live. He wouldn't have scored high in a coding competition, but it makes his accomplishments only more impressive.

Being "talented" and "winning" looks like a railroad track, interesting life is worth more imho

I've read it. I believe he smashed the detective in the face with a garbage can lid to escape. Not exactly very likeable.

Also he literally lied to a ton of people to gain access to systems. So not very honest

I need a reality check sometimes. As a Russian, I naturally look at abusing cops or lying to phone company clerks as a good thing, but it's obviously my national deformation.

However, he is honest to his readers, which is the best honesty we could ask for from a book.