Companion to the History of the Book

by Simon Eliot (editor), Jonathan Rose (Editor)

The celebrated text on the history of the book, completely revised, updated and expanded 

The revised and updated edition of The Companion to the History of the Book offers a global survey of the book’s history, through print and electronic text. Already well established as a standard survey of the historiography of the book, this new, expanded edition draws on a decade of advanced scholarship to present current research on paper, printing, binding, scientific publishing, the history of maps, music and print, the profession of authorship and lexicography.

The text explores the many approaches to the book from the early clay tablets of Sumer, Assyria and Babylonia to today’s burgeoning electronic devices. The expert contributions delve into such fascinating topics as archives and paperwork, and present new chapters on Arabic script, the Slavic, Canadian, African and Australasian book, new textual technologies, and much more.

Containing a wealth of illustrative examples and case studies to dramatize the exciting history of the book, the text is designed for academics, students and anyone interested in the subject.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Books About Books, Reference

1435 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 11, 2007

Reviews

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

this helped me get a good grade on my paper so 4/5 thanks

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

The things I liked about this anthology only marginally outweighed those that I didn't. This is straightforward history of the dullest variety. Nothing analytical. That said, it's hugely comprehensive, not only in terms of the time it spans, but also its geography. I was impressed with the depth of knowledge that went into some of the pieces (particularly those giving information about "the book" in international frameworks). Other pieces seemed under-researched (which is only exacerbated with everything is under-theorized, at least in my mind). There are definitely pieces here that would be useful to assign as background (particularly to an undergraduate book history course), and I don't want to imply that I didn't learn a lot. I guess at the end of the day I've been thoroughly poisoned against history that doesn't go beyond an attempt to present facts.

[Masood Akhtar]

A comprehensive guide about the history of book from ancient to modern times. All aspects related to book making from the origin till date around the world. All details may not be relevant to all readers.

[Nanette · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a collection of essays on the subject of the history of the book. While many are very interesting and engaging, others are extremely dry and difficult to read through.

[Mauricio Villamayor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives a good overview of the history of books. Although has chapters about Asia and South America developments on books, its overall view is too focus on European/NorthAmerican history.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Long but interesting.