The introduction to this compact book is by Joel Myerson and Chris L. Nesmith who claim that this work, first published in New York by Harper and Brothers in 1855, is generally considered to be the finest introduction available on printing and production practices in America at the time of publication. Originally issued in a series aimed at children, the author starts with a disclaimer that some books in the series will be appreciated only by adults or juveniles of mature judgement and that is certainly the case here.
The first 30 pages are of limited interest as they describe in some detail the construction of Harper’s impressive building. Successive chapters deal with composition, proofs and correcting, type‐founding, electrotyping, illustration, presswork and the binding processes. Despite a tedious, didactic style, redolent of the period, there is much useful information here on nineteenth‐century production methods. The short chapter on electrotypes is an excellent example of careful explanation.
Oak Knoll Books have produced a well‐printed, sturdy successor to Harper’s original edition. The wood‐engraved illustrations have been carefully reproduced and the reprint is a worthy addition to the shelves of the book collector, although it might not be the case that the publication will have wide appeal.
