The author of this book, Capers Jones, has a long and distinguished career in the software engineering field. Consequently, he is ideally positioned to write this history. The 400-plus-page book can be read completely, but can also be rapidly skimmed for individual topics. Written in nontechnical language, this stimulating history is accessible to any reader, with or without software knowledge.

After a prelude, the book proceeds decade by decade, starting in 1930. Especially noteworthy are the brief histories of companies, placed in the decade of their creation. This organization of content helps the reader keep events in chronological order. Jones also predicts new companies and products arising between 2013 and 2019. Important individuals are highlighted throughout the history in the context of their contributions. Special events, such as the development of the credit card, each receive a one- or two-page treatment.

The book concludes with two chapters, “Modern Software Problems” and “A Brief History of Cybercrime and Cyberwarfare.” The chapter on software problems reviews 21 failures between 1962 and 2012, with a summary of lessons learned and methods for problem avoidance. This is a must-read. The cybercrime chapter is both historical and instructive in reviewing various types of attacks and defensive measures. As with the rest of the book, the author does not offer a technical manual on these subjects, but instead a quickly absorbed overview that even general readers will appreciate.

Inevitably, readers may wonder why some person or development was not discussed. I found nothing objectionable about Jones’ selections. It is clear that he has not created an encyclopedia. Perhaps pictures might have been included, but their absence is not noticeable. Each chapter has a brief summary, if a reader is pressed for time. However, the book draws the reader in. I found it difficult to put down.

The book includes an annotated bibliography and reference list, featuring books and web items. A very complete index of subjects, companies, and people enables readers to pinpoint topics of interest. This is an instructive and very readable presentation that should be added to your bookshelf.

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