Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson
The book is a sprawling narrative that intertwines two timelines: the first during World War II, focusing on the efforts of cryptographers and mathematicians working to break Axis codes, and the second in the late 20th century, following a group of entrepreneurs and hackers establishing a data haven in Southeast Asia. The novel explores themes of cryptography, mathematics, and the history of computing, weaving together real historical figures with fictional characters. As the plot unfolds across different continents and eras, it delves into the impact of information technology on society and the perpetual conflict between governments and individuals over the control of information and privacy.
The 2135th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1999
- Nationality
- American
- Length
- Very Long
- Pages
- 900-1150
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
-
(4.4)
- Alternate Titles
- None
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This book is on the following 8 lists:
- 6th on The Ideal Library (Book)
- 53rd on Top 100 Science-Fiction, Fantasy Books (NPR)
- 75th on Top 200 Science Fiction Books (Pre-2000) (Sci-Fi Lists)
- 79th on Top 100 Killer Thrillers (NPR)
- 2462nd on Our Users' Honorable Mention Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- 1000 Novels Everyone Must Read (The Guardian)
- Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel (Locus Awards)
- The 50 Best Sci-Fi Books for Every Kind of Reader (Men's Health)