After reading the introductory pages to Emma Smith's ambitious new book it's clear that although this is clearly a very scholarly, well-researched approach to this fascinating subject, there is nothing 'dry' about her presentation. I found her writing style engaging and entertaining and I love the idea of thinking about books as 'portable magic' and I'm sure I'd find this a very thought-provoking book. I suppose my one caveat is that I fear too much analysis may take away some of the alchemy which happens when we lose ourselves in a book ... but maybe it will enhance it if I'm lucky enough to win a copy in this draw!