It is a nonfiction book by Jason Fagone, published in 2017. This engaging biography shares the life of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, a trailblazing cryptanalyst whose codebreaking skills were crucial during World War I and World War II and in fighting organized crime. The Woman Who Smashed Codes is loved for its thorough research, thrilling tale, and honor of an overlooked hero.
This article will explore the book’s summary, themes, and impact. We will look at the author’s background, how the book was received, and its chances of being made into a movie.
The Woman Who Smashed Codes
The Woman Who Smashed Codes is a biography of Elizabeth Smith Friedman. She was a key codebreaker in history and had an extraordinary life. The book shows her brilliance, strength, and impact on national security.
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Jason Fagone’s writing stands out for its careful research and lively storytelling. He makes history come alive. The Woman Who Smashed Codes gives readers a look at cryptography. It highlights the unsung heroes who helped shape modern intelligence.
Summary
The book starts with Elizebeth Smith Friedman’s childhood in Indiana. There, she fell in love with literature and languages. Her life took a turn when George Fabyan, a wealthy businessman, brought her on at Riverbank Laboratories. This place focused on cryptographic research.
At Riverbank, Elizabeth met William Friedman, a fellow codebreaker whom she later married. Together, they became a formidable team in cryptography.
In World War I, Elizabeth and William broke enemy codes. Their work helped shape modern cryptanalysis. During the interwar period, Elizabeth fought organized crime. She used her skills to decode messages from bootleggers and smugglers.
During World War II, Elizabeth played a key role in fighting Nazi spies in South America. Even with her vast contributions, her work was often overlooked. This was especially true compared to her male colleagues in the FBI and NSA.
The book ends by reflecting on Elizebeth’s legacy and highlighting the need to recognize her contributions to cryptography.
Movie
Right now, there is no official news about a movie based on The Woman Who Smashed Codes. The book has great cinematic potential and a strong story, making it a top choice for adaptation.
Fans can’t wait to see the vibrant world and rich characters of The Woman Who Smashed Codes on screen.
Film Rights
There’s no confirmed news on film rights yet. Still, the book’s rich history and captivating story make it an excellent choice for adaptation. Elizabeth Smith Friedman’s untold story could captivate people all over the world.
Reviews
Critical Reception:
- The New York Times called it “a riveting and deeply researched account of a remarkable woman.”
- NPR praised its “meticulous research and engaging storytelling.”
Reader Reviews:
- On Goodreads, the book has an average rating of 4.2/5 based on over 10,000 reviews.
- Readers often discuss the book’s engaging topic, gripping story, and homage to a hidden hero.
The Woman Who Smashed Codes Unabridged
Cassandra Campbell narrates the full audiobook of The Woman Who Smashed Codes. This version gives listeners an immersive experience, allowing them to truly enjoy the depth and detail of Jason Fagone’s research.
New York Times
The New York Times named The Woman Who Smashed Codes a notable book, calling it a “riveting and deeply researched account of a remarkable woman.” Many major publications have covered the book, showing its importance and appeal.
Book The Woman Who Smashed Codes
The Woman Who Smashed Codes is a standalone nonfiction book that has received praise for its thorough research and captivating story.
- Publication Details:
- First Published: September 26, 2017
- Publisher: Dey Street Books
- Pages: 448 (Hardcover)
The book is a big hit. It made the New York Times Best Seller list and won many awards.
PDF Details
If you want to read The Woman Who Smashed Codes in PDF, you can find it on several platforms, including:
- Google Books
- Amazon Kindle
- Barnes & Noble
It’s essential to get the PDF from a trusted source. This way, you support the author and the publishers.
Review
Critical Reception:
- The New York Times called it “a riveting and deeply researched account of a remarkable woman.”
- NPR praised its “meticulous research and engaging storytelling.”
Reader Reviews:
- On Goodreads, the book has an average rating of 4.2/5 based on over 10,000 reviews.
- Readers often talk about the book’s interesting topic. They enjoy the captivating story and the tribute to a hidden hero.
Quotes
The book is filled with memorable quotes that reflect its themes and beauty:
- “Elizebeth Smith Friedman broke codes, defied expectations, and changed history.”
- “In a world dominated by men, Elizebeth proved that genius knows no gender.”
- “Her work was invisible, but its impact was monumental.”
Author Details:
- Name: Jason Fagone
- Born: 1979, Pennsylvania, USA
- Notable Works:
- Horse Riders of the Esophagus (2006)
- Ingenious (2013)
- The Woman Who Smashed Codes (2017)
Book References:
- Title: The Woman Who Smashed Codes
- Author: Jason Fagone
- Publisher: Dey Street Books
- Publication Year: 2017
- Pages: 448