Can You Crack the Code?: A Fascinating History of Ciphers and Cryptography

by Ella Schwartz, Lily Williams (Illustrator)

Overview

2020 AAAS/Subaru Prize for Excellence in Science Books: winner in the category of Hands-On Science Book
2021 NCTE Mathical Book Prize Honor Book for Grades 6-8

Codes can carry big secrets! Throughout history, lots of good guys and lots of bad guys have used codes to keep their messages under wraps. This fun and flippable nonfiction features stories of hidden treasures, war-time maneuverings, and contemporary hacking as well as explaining the mechanics behind the codes in accessible and kid friendly forms. Sidebars call out activities that invite the reader to try their own hand at cracking and crafting their own secret messages. This is the launch of an exciting new series that invites readers into a STEM topic through compelling historical anecdotes, scientific backup, and DIY projects.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781681195148
Publisher:	Bloomsbury USA
Publication date:	03/26/2019
Pages:	128
Sales rank:	348,303
Product dimensions:	8.10(w) x 10.40(h) x 0.80(d)
Age Range:	8 - 12 Years

About the Author

Ella Schwartz is a government anti-hacking professional and is dedicated to encouraging more young people, especially girls, to explore STEM fields. She lives in Long Beach, New York.

Editorial Reviews

04/01/2019

Gr 4–8-Schwartz provides a comprehensive and intriguing overview of cryptography, encryption, hacking, and cybersecurity. Beginning with simply coded messages and ciphers, the book follows the logical development of increasingly sophisticated codes throughout historical and contemporary use. Readers are given the opportunity to learn and practice real codes, as well as ways to explore how ciphers and encryption techniques are currently used by the military, secret service, businesses, and even sports teams. Math connections are included as the book demonstrates how computerized encryption utilizes prime numbers of mind-boggling size. Schwartz also explains common cybersecurity techniques such as second-factor authentication and biometrics. Illustrations and photographs clarify the concepts presented. The book concludes with a code-breaking challenge which directs readers to clues scattered throughout the chapters (not seen). This book will prove fascinating to young readers interested in history, technology, math, mysteries, and espionage. Its coverage of codes from the simple to the complex makes it accessible to upper elementary students while still being challenging and thought-provoking for middle school readers. The inclusion of stories about famous codes yet to be deciphered is especially engaging. Of particular value is the discussion about the ethics of information privacy. VERDICT Covers all the bases of an interesting and timely subject; a worthy addition to any collection, particularly where STEM topics are popular.-Kelly Jahng, South Park Elementary School, IL

School Library Journal

Hands-on history for budding spies, hackers, or anyone with a secret message to send . . . Offer[s] a broad and lucid survey of cryptographic strategies.” —Kirkus Reviews

“This perennially popular topic leads kids into tales of war and espionage, and to better ways of passing messages in class… Cartoon illustrations keep things cheery, as does Schwartz's overall optimism concerning cybersecurity and the white hat hacking. For middle-graders interested in the interplay of encryption and their personal security.” —BCCB

From the Publisher