David's Computer Stuff Journal: Cryptonomicon

Cryptonomicon

David N. Welton — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 03:22:00 -0700

I just finished re-reading one of my favorite books, Neil Stephenson's Cryptonomicon. I don't often reread books, but this one is really a classic, and I got even more out if it the second time around. If for some reason you haven't already read it, and you are the type of person who likes sci-fi, startups, computers, crypto and the like, I'd highly recommend it. I'm a pretty quick reader, so having a book that lasts a week or two is also a pleasant change from briefer, quicker material. There are lots of subtle references and nuances to keep your mind entertained outside of the main story line, which is pretty good in and of itself, spanning two timelines, one during the second world war, and one in the late nineties (it's been a while since I've had to type startx to launch a GUI on Linux!).

"Cryptonomicon" by Lester

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 06:32:33 -0700

You do get a lot of information from that book. amazing. It is a great guide of sorts.

"Cryptonomicon" by Ryan Tomayko

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 07:27:09 -0700

"a book that lasts a week or two"??? I've been reading Cryptonomicon for two years now :)

Nah, I moved through it quickly until about the time when Enoch and Randy are in jail and communicating very slowly with playing cards. At that point I slowed way down for some reason.

Also, the one part of that book where he describes the sensation one has when eating Cap'n Crunch is one of my favorite pieces of literature, ever.

"Cryptonomicon" by Matt

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 06:23:04 -0700

Only read it twice. I read Cryptonomicon whenever I run out of new books - it's still great.

I live in Milton Keynes, close to Bletchley Park and have drunk in the pub in Shenley that Lawrence and Alan visit. I think knowing that the historical details are accurate - yet wound with a fictional plot - is one of the reasons I think its such a good book.

Love Snow Crash too.