Johann Gutenberg and the Amazing Printing Press

This is a beautifully-illustrated book about Johann Gutenberg and the invention of printing. It shows what it was like to produce books before Gutenberg, and how he transformed the world. It is not as interesting as many picture book biographies I have read; it basically reports the facts instead of telling a story. However, it is very informative and my 6-year-old found it quite interesting.

I love books about books, and the history of books and printing, so when I saw this at the local Half Price Books clearance shelf for a buck I had to grab it. It is a children's book but still full of wonderful details on the history of the printing press and how books came to be made. The watercolor pictures are also pretty good.

A delightful little children's book about Johann Guttenberg and the invention of the printing press. The book is written, designed and illustrated by the author Bruce Koscielniak, and he is careful to point out the previous efforts made by other cultures to mass produce the written word. China, Korea and early European monastic efforts are highlighted with simple explanatory language and diagrams. An enjoyable quick read, even for adults who delight in the history of the book.

While this book is a bit long, the illustrations and information are interesting. It could be done in sections or by selecting portions to cover.
I would use it as a creative hook for writing assignments, showing how we choose our words and to encourage proofreading.

A history of the modern printing industry, including how paper and ink are made, looking particularly at the printing press invented by Gutenberg around 1450, but also at its precursors.