Quirky & humorous, part poetry, part reflection, this is the story of the book told by none other than Book himself! This extraordinary character begins by reminding us of his origins in oral story & clay tablets, then ponders on papyrus, parchment & paper, & on being a scroll who finally gets a spine. We see him lovingly illuminated by monks in medieval monasteries, then witness the massive changes brought about by the invention of the printing press, & the coming of paperbacks & e-books in the 20th century. But Book`s not a straightforwardly chronological chap; he can`t help musing
- & his musings, whether they`re on the evolution of the alphabet, libraries, book-burning or blurbs, are delightful & thought-provoking. Years of reflection & observation have gone into this charming title
- John Agard signed the contract with Walker 16 years ago!