Ten essays (in many case expanded versions of lectures delivered over a dozen years) demonstrate the change in direction the study of bookbinding has taken; much of the work is based on observation of bookbinding techniques and materials as well as close study of decorative tools and how they were used to reflect the styles and fashions of their day. Topics also include the movement of books across Europe, the place of the bookbinder in the larger network of the book trade, and the wider cultural and political background in which books carried ideas forward. The text is nicely illustrated in b&w and with eight color plates. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)