Introduction to Book History

This second edition of An Introduction to Book History provides a comprehensive critical introduction to the development of the book and print culture. Each fully revised and updated chapter contains new material and covers recent developments in the field, including: * The Postcolonial Book * Censorship by states and religions * Social History, and the recognition of underrepresentation of its value to book history studies * Contemporary publishing Each section begins with a summary of the chapter's aims and contents, followed by a detailed discussion of the relevant issues, concluding with a summary of the chapter and points to ponder. Sections include: * the history of the book * orality to Literacy * literacy to printing * authors, authorship and authority * printers, booksellers, publishers, agents * readers and reading * the future of the book. An Introduction to Book History is an ideal introduction to this exciting field of study, and is designed as a companion text to The Book History Reader.