Emile Berliner was one of the "greats" in the history of the development of telecommunications. Perhaps best known for his work with the microphone, he also contributed much to the development of the radio and the phonograph - especially the disc record rather than the prevailing Edison-developed cylinder. In writing this unique biography, the author has made full use of references and extracts from contemporary documents and his text clearly describes complicated technical issues and court litigation. Wile is also successful in recreating the dramatic life of this prolific scientist. The New York Times reported that "Mr. Wile tells the interesting and inspiring story with full appreciation of its dramatic features".