The earliest civilizations developed writing systems in order to keep records. Since then, writing has evolved to become a complex form of communication. In fact, reading and writing today are often hi-tech endeavors. Inventions in Reading and Writing: From Calligraphy to Kindles discusses (in chronological order) the invention of calligraphy, paper, moveable type, and Kindle e-Readers. The book demonstrates the effect these innovations have had on readers, writers, and the world at large. The book also draws connections between the inventions themselves. These connections are often surprising, such as the link between moveable type, e-books, and our modern idea of individual nations with unique identities. Bibliography, Biographies, Black-and-White Photographs, Full-Color Photographs, Further Information Section, Glossary, Index, Sidebars, Timelines, Websites.

Shaping the written word -- Early forms of communication -- Calligraphy -- The invention of paper -- Movable type -- The kindle e-reader -- The power of invention.