Amazon.com
Historian H. Keith Melton is a specialist in 20th-century espionage; he's also quite a fan of espionage gadgetry. Both interests make strong showings in this heavily illustrated glimpse into the shadowy world of modern spying. Melton examines the role of clandestine intelligence in revolutionary Russia and Nazi Germany, analyzes modern spy rings, and profiles a number of important figures in the demimonde of spooks, among them British code breaker Alan Turing and Yugoslav double agent Dusan Popov. He also showcases some astonishing hardware, ranging from suitcase radios to shirt button microphones and mechanical pencil pistols. Former CIA director William Colby and former KGB general Oleg Kalugin, who recruited the American traitor John Walker, contribute forewords.
From School Library Journal
YA?A wealth of information about the practice of spying, illustrated with a variety of well-captioned photographs, reproductions, charts, and sketches. The introduction puts forth the motivation for spying to be contained in the acronym MICE?money, ideology, compromise, and ego. There is a breakdown of the types of spies?couriers, double agents, defectors, saboteurs, moles, and more. Illustrations of their hidden devices and tools are also included. The sections on equipment and technique, clandestine communications, and weapons are fascinating. Here the sketches and photos are most compelling. A final chapter instructs on "How To Be a Spy" and includes training and recruitment, covers, and networks.?Frances Reiher, Fairfax Public Library System, VA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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