K&r is an abbreviation of the names Kerning and Rand, two prominent computer scientists. The two developed the programming language C, the foundation of many modern languages, back in the 1970's. K&R is considered a classic computer programming book, and is much quoted in the programming community. The book is also used as a reference for students studying Computer Science, as it provides invaluable information on the structure, design, and evolution of the C language. Its structure is sometimes copied in modern programming languages, making the book highly relevant in contemporary times.