The Code Book by Simon Singh

Simon Singh's 'The Code Book' delves into the fascinating world of encryption, revealing its profound impact on historical events and individual lives. The book explores the intricate history of codes and ciphers, including the enigmatic Beale Cipher, which was used to conceal the location of a hidden treasure in the early 19th century. /n/nBeyond the thrilling narratives of secret messages and unsolved puzzles, Singh provides a comprehensive overview of the science and mathematics behind encryption. The book also examines the evolution of cryptography, from ancient times to the digital age, highlighting its role in shaping the course of history and the development of modern technology.

Reviews

BookLore · 2025-12-23

fascinating 4.00

The book is described as fascinating and comprehensive, covering the entire history of code making and breaking. The reviewer appreciates the detailed exploration of cryptographic systems.

BookLore's review describes 'The Code Book' as a fascinating journey through the history of code making and breaking. The reviewer appreciates the book's comprehensive coverage of cryptographic systems, noting that it looks beyond just the technical aspects to include historical context. The detailed exploration of various cryptographic systems is particularly praised, making the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in the subject. The reviewer finds the book to be both informative and engaging, with a rating of 8/10.

Quick quotes

This fascinating book takes the reader through the entire history of code making and breaking, looking not just at the cryptographic systems, but also at the historical context.

The book is a brilliant account of the development of codes and cryptography.

The Code Book is a very readable and skilfully told history of cryptography.

Reclamation Magazine · 2021-07-31

excellent 4.50

This book is an excellent starting point for learning about cryptography, with a comprehensive bibliography for further exploration. The historical context and scientific explanations are well-balanced and engaging.

Reclamation Magazine highlights how 'The Code Book' serves as an excellent introduction to the fascinating world of cryptography. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to blend historical context with scientific explanations, making it accessible yet thorough. The extensive bibliography is noted as a valuable resource for those looking to delve deeper into the subject. The reviewer finds the book to be both educational and engaging, praising its ability to make complex topics understandable.

Quick quotes

This book is a great place to begin with learning about cryptography, and the extensive bibliography is a great resource for diving in a bit deeper.

The book covers the evolution of cryptography from ancient times to the present day.

The Code Book is a fascinating journey through the history of secret communication.

The Guardian · 2000-05-24

brilliant 4.00

The book is praised for its readability and skillful storytelling, making the history of cryptography accessible to a wide audience. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and engaging narrative.

The Guardian's review highlights 'The Code Book' as a very readable and skillfully told history of cryptography. The reviewer commends Simon Singh for making complex topics accessible and engaging. The book's ability to weave together historical events and scientific explanations is particularly noted. The reviewer finds the narrative to be detailed and captivating, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the subject.

Quick quotes

How this came about is the subject of Simon Singh's The Code Book, a very readable and skilfully told history of cryptography.

Singh's book is a brilliant account of the development of codes and cryptography.

The Code Book mixes story-telling with commendably lucid explanations of everything from the cracking of the 'unbreakable' Vigenere cipher.

Appears in Lists

100 Best Network Security Books of All Time