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Computer Sciences: Macmillan Science Library — Print

"Grade 9 Up-Each volume in this set is devoted to a different aspect of the computing world. ... each book also includes numerous cross-references and an outline that groups set contents thematically; volume four has a comprehensive index. The first volume focuses on the history of the technology and covers significant people and topics from Blaise Pascal and MP3 to digital photography and numerous businesses, associations, and organizations. ... Volume two includes types and specific computer languages, programming, components, devices, and networking. Computer applications in medicine, "aesthetic and intellectual pursuits," and day-to-day equipment such as ATMs and cell phones are examined in the third volume. The final volume covers the ways modern life is changing and/or being affected by computers (e.g., cybercafes, surveillance) and the issues that take on new meaning in the electronic world (e.g., censorship, copyright)...The authoritative articles are consistently readable, well organized, and easy to follow...Sidebars present interesting, related topics, facts, and personalities. Terminology is defined in the margins and volume glossaries. An accessible, up-to-date resource."
-- School Library Journal (Febraury 2003)

"This is an impressive four-volume encyclopedia that covers the world of computing from its earliest origins to predictions about future trends. Each of the volumes presents computer science from a different aspect. Volume 1 deals with the foundations of the discipline, while volume 2 covers software and hardware. Volume 3 is concerned with social applications of computing and the last volume describes our computer civilization as it exists and is evolving. The set boasts 286 entries from more than 125 individuals. The volumes are heavily illustrated with black-and-white pictures and graphs. ... Each volume is arranged in alphabetic order by subject, with subtopics that are accessible from the volume index. The signed articles are of varying length, with see also references at the end. Technical or unfamiliar terms are printed in bold typeface with a definition included in the margin of the page and an entry in the glossary. Scattered throughout the books are lavender text boxes with additional interesting facts about the subject under discussion. Under the entry "World Wide Web" a text box informs the reader that Yahoo! is an acronym for "Yet Another Hierarchical Officious Oracle" (v.1, p.219). These boxes add interest to this already fascinating set. The writing is straightforward, avoiding the often used computer jargon, and is geared toward the general reader. Computer Sciences is an excellent purchase for a reference collection, filling an existing need in the average collection."
-- ARBA (January 2003)

"Flynn's attractive encyclopedia provides a fresh look at the rapidly evolving world of computers and computer science. It includes 286 signed entries written by more than 125 contributors. The four volumes are organized by topic: volume 1 focuses on the history of computing, important innovators, associations, and events; volume 2 discusses design, processes, inventions, and inventors; volume 3 features articles on how computer science has influenced our lives, from fashion design to music to astronomy; volume 4 explores commerce, and digital libraries. Many articles are enhanced by sidebars, glossary definitions, black-and-white illustrations, cross-references, and bibliographic or Internet resources. Additional features include time lines, a glossary, and an index to the set. Intended for general readers and high school students, this encyclopedia will appeal to anyone curious about this complex field or its impact on today's world."
-- Choice (January 2003)