Heavily illustrated with color plates of manuscript pages and details, this oversized volume (9x12") contains an thorough presentation of the study of medieval manuscripts that will be of use to medievalists as well as their students. The process of manuscript production is described in detail, including the production of vellum; the grinding and mixing of inks and pigments; the process of filling the pages with text, illuminated initials, and paintings; different manuscript genres; and how bindings are made. Special attention is devoted to scripts and their study. The text is filled with anecdotes on the history of collecting, details about conservation, and discussion of the various dangers manuscripts face from bugs, rodents, water, and initial- and illumination-clippers. Practical information is provided on how to obtain permission from libraries to view their manuscripts and how to behave once there. A glossary and bibliography are provided. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)