Former science and math teacher Newton (Global Warming, LJ 3/15/94) has written a fascinating compendium of cryptology, the science of secret writing. More than 550 alphabetically arranged entries trace the role of cryptology, from its earliest uses in the 4th century B.C.E. to its present-day application in electronic information warfare. Comprehensive in scope, Newton's work examines cryptology's role in military communications, financial transactions, and more scholarly areas such as archaeology, linguistics, literature, and theology. The use of invisible ink, microdots, cryptograms, and modern data-encryption methods are presented, along with an intriguing examination of codes and ciphers that have defied even the greatest minds for centuries. Many of the entries include cross references and suggested further readings. Exceptional content, an extensive bibliography, and a comprehensive subject index make this volume an invaluable reference tool. Recommended for most academic and public libraries.
