This book explains ciphers, crypt-analysis, and the developments of them throughout history. He does a good job of personifying the various stages of development of codes and codebreaking.
I learned things. The concept of the computer was created by a gay man. One German cryptographer was harrassed for almost 30 years, from 1943 when he left Nazi Germany until well after WW2. Advanced computers probably already exist, but they aren't being used to advance medical research. The explanation of quantum computing was very clear, and I have a much greater understanding of quantum physics now.
The narrative was well done. I just can't imagine things being as tidy as the author makes them out to be. There isn't a lot of hedging, like, what if what we understand the actions of certain historical figures to be, what if it is wrong. There's no mention of patriarchy, white supremacy, racism, or some other potent totems in society. Maybe they just weren't in the scope of the book. But I find that hard to believe. The author seems talented enough to tie in almost any topic. Clearly he cares about privacy and government oppression, which he covers extensively near the end of the book. But, it seems to be a narrow concern, perhaps even a bit bourgeois.
All in all a solid read, interesting stories, clear explanation, unique information, and not too much of a shit head. I also read this quite quickly, and it was rather digestible.
Thanks Mr. Singh.
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