Who invented radio? Many believe that Marconi invented radio, which is true, in a sense. He invented radio using techniques that Tesla had first published in 1894, but had made public as early as 1891. Marconi was merely the first to demonstrate its practicality in long distance communication, and thus its commerciality. It wasn’t until after Tesla’s death in 1942 that courts ruled against the Marconi claim of the invention of radio. But even today, few people have heard of Tesla, fewer still know of his work and the tremendous impact it has had on our everyday life. Fortunately, this little book, written in clear and concise language, makes no attempt to explain wireless telegraphy as the technical work it inherently is. It does describe wireless theory, the apparatus employed, and the methods of operation is such simple terms that anyone interested in the subject can understand. There are a number of schematics and illustrations inserted throughout the text, and for those so inclined, detailed directions on making some of the apparatus described. Instructions are given for building Hertzian transmitters and receivers, as well as the original model for the Marconi system of wireless telegraphy. There is also a chapter on the batteries of the day and a lengthy appendix describing advanced apparatus in use at the time. In addition to its use as a workbook, what makes this book engaging is the detail in which it covers the early history of electricity and magnetism, including an overview of some of the great pioneers of early electrical research: Hertz, Ampere, Lodge, Leyden, Morse, as well as others. In fact, this book is a very-near practical guide to building early radio apparatus, and thus will be a valuable addition to the practical study of the accomplishments of early wireless. This book is an excellent example of how important the earlier periods of science and discovery were to our modern-day lifestyle. Without the invention of radio and the subsequent exploration of the electromagnetic spectrum much of what we take for granted in modern society would not exist. ISBN 1-59016-004-5 o 116 pages o 6 x 9 o tradepaper o illustrated.