From Library Journal Grade 5 Up-This attractive volume discusses present-day communications technology and predicts possible developments for the new millennium. Beginning with a time line of the computer and the microprocessor, the book treats readers to a dazzling array of future computer-driven devices such as "smart cards" that allow holders to communicate by radio with the outside world, robots that serve drinks to guests and eventually design better versions of themselves, "knowbots" that filter information coming from the Internet and determine whether its sources are reliable, holographic telephones, virtual spiders, and small flying robots that can be used as security cameras. "Crystal Ball" entries give readers a look into the future of technology while "Blurred Vision" commentaries give a look into the past and some of its failed predictions. A list of several museums and science centers that feature communications displays and a list of Web sites that relate to the future and/or technology are appended. The text is crisp, authoritative, and interesting. However, initially it will be the book's eye-catching design that will grab students' attention.
