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43 pages 1 hour read

Simon Singh

The Code Book: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Code Book by Simon Singh outlines the history and evolution of cryptology, from ancient methods to modern quantum cryptography. It covers key historical events, such as Queen Mary's trial, the mechanization of encryption with the Enigma machine in WWII, and the use of Navajo code talkers. The book emphasizes the increasing relevance of cryptography in the digital age and explores future technological advancements in the field.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Code Book by Simon Singh is praised for its engaging narrative and thorough exploration of the history of cryptography. Readers appreciate Singh's ability to make complex topics accessible and entertaining. However, some criticize the technical depth as occasionally overwhelming for novices. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in the subject.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Code Book?

A reader who enjoys The Code Book by Simon Singh is often fascinated by the history and science of cryptography. This book appeals to those who appreciate intellectually stimulating nonfiction similar to Steven Levy’s Crypto or Neal Stephenson's Cryptonomicon, blending historical narratives with technical insights in an accessible manner.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

1310L

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