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The Book: A Cover-To-Cover Exploration Of The Most Powerful Object Of Our Time

The Book: A Cover-To-Cover Exploration Of The Most Powerful Object Of Our Time

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“Everybody who has ever read a book will benefit from the way Keith Houston explores the most powerful object of our time. And everybody who has read it will agree that reports of the book’s death have been greatly exaggerated.”―Erik Spiekermann, typographer

We may love books, but do we know what lies behind them? In The Book, Keith Houston reveals that the paper, ink, thread, glue, and board from which a book is made tell as rich a story as the words on its pages―of civilizations, empires, human ingenuity, and madness. In an invitingly tactile history of this 2,000-year-old medium, Houston follows the development of writing, printing, the art of illustrations, and binding to show how we have moved from cuneiform tablets and papyrus scrolls to the hardcovers and paperbacks of today. Sure to delight book lovers of all stripes with its lush, full-color illustrations, The Book gives us the momentous and surprising history behind humanity’s most important―and universal―information technology.

71 color illustrations

Details of Book

ISBN13: 9781324086352
ISBN10: 1324086351
Language: English
Publication Year: 2025
Format: Paperback

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A note on book covers: while we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

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  • One Line Summary

    A tactile journey through the history of the book.

  • Who is this book for?

    If you're fascinated by how books are made and their rich history, this book is a treasure trove. Keith Houston offers a delightful exploration into the materials and craftsmanship behind one of humanity's most enduring inventions. It's perfect for anyone curious about the stories behind the pages, beyond just the words.

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Wardah BooksWardah Books is a bookshop specialising in books on Islam in the English language.
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