The Book History Reader

The Book History Reader

Publisher
Routledge
Published
2006
Pages
561
ISBN-13
9780415359481
Format
print
Language
English

Following on from the widely successful first volume, this second edition has been updated and expanded to create an essential collection of writings examining different aspects o…

Book Summary
The Book History Reader is an essential anthology for students and scholars of book history, publishing, and print culture. This updated second edition compiles key essays and extracts, organized thematically, covering everything from oral traditions to digital futures. With new sections on gender, material culture, and electronic publishing, it remains a vital resource for understanding the development and impact of the book.
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About The Book History Reader

The Book History Reader, edited by David Finkelstein and Alistair McCleery, is a comprehensive collection of seminal writings on the history of books and print culture. This second edition expands on the first with new material on gender, material culture, and the future of the book in the electronic age. The essays are arranged thematically, covering the evolution of the book from spoken word to written text, the commodification of books, and the power and profile of readers. Each section includes an introduction that contextualizes the readings. This pioneering volume is designed for students and scholars in publishing studies, library studies, book history, English literature, cultural studies, sociology, and history, providing a rich and varied overview of the field.

Who should read The Book History Reader?

This book is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students in publishing, library science, book history, English literature, cultural studies, sociology, and history. It is also valuable for academics and researchers seeking a curated collection of key texts in book history. Professionals in publishing and librarianship will find it useful for understanding the historical context of their fields. Anyone interested in the evolution of print culture and the impact of digital media on books will benefit from this reader.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive collection of key essays in book history
  • ✓ Thematic organization with helpful section introductions
  • ✓ New material on gender, material culture, and electronic future
  • ✓ Contributions from a wide range of respected scholars
  • ✓ Suitable for multiple disciplines and courses
Cons
  • ✗ Some essays may be too specialized for general readers
  • ✗ Lacks a unified narrative due to its anthology format
  • ✗ Limited coverage of non-Western book histories
  • ✗ Assumes prior knowledge of book history concepts
  • ✗ Electronic age section may become dated quickly
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for beginners in book history?
While it is accessible, some prior knowledge of book history is helpful. The introductions provide context, but beginners may want to start with a more introductory text.
Does the second edition include new content?
Yes, the second edition features expanded material on gender, material culture, and a new section on the future of the book in the electronic age.
Is this book useful for publishing professionals?
Absolutely. It offers historical perspectives on publishing and print culture that are relevant to contemporary publishing practices.
What disciplines is this book relevant to?
It is relevant to publishing studies, library studies, book history, English literature, cultural studies, sociology, and history.
Does the book cover digital publishing?
Yes, there is a dedicated section on the future of the book in the electronic age, though it may not cover the very latest developments.

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