Comparisons of the citation patterns over time in criminology textbooks and in journals indicated some agreement among the most cited scholars, although a close inspection of the data showed much volatility. Seventeen new scholars appeared on the most cited list between 1994 and 1998, 14 additional scholars enjoyed marked rises in citation ranks between 1989-1993 and 1994-1998, and 19 others experienced marked declines over the years. Some of the trends were attributed to changes in research areas and specializations covered in the textbooks. For example, quantitative researchers in general and those who conducted longitudinal criminal career research in particular were cited more extensively in recent books. In addition, researchers specializing in female crime and white-collar crime rose in the citation ranks. Most scholars who declined in rank had been inactive professionally or had died. Comparisons of the most cited scholars in criminology textbooks and in journals also showed much instability over time. Some agreement existed in the citation patterns, but little agreement was observed between textbooks and journals. The author concludes that volatility in the most cited scholars over time justifies further research. An appendix lists criminology textbooks examined in the study. 51 references, 9 notes, and 4 tables