I’m not usually a reader of non-fiction books but I could not resist a book whose title was taken from a quote from Stephen King, my favourite author “books are a uniquely portable magic”, plus the author has the same name as one of my closest friends!
This Emma Smith has written a book all about the history of books. Through sixteen chapters, each giving a description of different aspects of books, she looks at the relationship between the reader and their books, and also that between books and the world and world events. Although the book looks back on historical texts, there is a chapter on free speech which is very relevant in today’s world. It also considers the importance of libraries to allow access to books for all, again much in the news with so many local authorities being forced to reduce opening hours or even close these valuable buildings due to lack of finding. I’m sure I would not be the avid reader I am today were it not for our local library.
This book holds lots of interesting facts about the history of books, giving an insight into the links between folklore and more modern novels. I enjoyed reading it looking for snippets of information about my favourite books and authors. It has also increased the length of my ‘to buy’ list as I remember books I have previously read and enjoyed, or new books and authors that have interested me.
With the beautiful cover this is an ideal gift for any book lover that they can dip in to even if they don’t want to read it all in one go.
This Emma Smith has written a book all about the history of books. Through sixteen chapters, each giving a description of different aspects of books, she looks at the relationship between the reader and their books, and also that between books and the world and world events. Although the book looks back on historical texts, there is a chapter on free speech which is very relevant in today’s world. It also considers the importance of libraries to allow access to books for all, again much in the news with so many local authorities being forced to reduce opening hours or even close these valuable buildings due to lack of finding. I’m sure I would not be the avid reader I am today were it not for our local library.
This book holds lots of interesting facts about the history of books, giving an insight into the links between folklore and more modern novels. I enjoyed reading it looking for snippets of information about my favourite books and authors. It has also increased the length of my ‘to buy’ list as I remember books I have previously read and enjoyed, or new books and authors that have interested me.
With the beautiful cover this is an ideal gift for any book lover that they can dip in to even if they don’t want to read it all in one go.