<DIV><p>"Ingenious, whimsical, imaginative and entertaining, this is a magical little book."?<I>The Times</I></p><p>In this highly imaginative exploration of our relationship with everyday things, Steven Connor looks at those items which, though mundane, have a magical quality?the things which have an often surprising power to absorb, disturb, seduce, and soothe.</p><p>With chapters on everything from keys to handkerchiefs, and sweets to spectacles, Connor embarks upon a historical, philosophical, and linguistic journey to reconnect with the curious and quirky things with which we have a forgotten intimacy.</p><p><B>Steven Connor</B> is professor of modern literature and theory at Birkbek College, London.</p><BR></DIV>