This second edition of An Introduction to Book History provides a comprehensive critical introduction to the development of the book and print culture. Each fully revised and updated chapter contains new material and covers recent developments in the field, including:The Postcolonial BookCensorship by states and religionsSocial History, and the recognition of underrepresentation of its value to book history studiesContemporary publishingEach section begins with a summary of the chapter's aims and contents, followed by a detailed discussion of the relevant issues, concluding with a summary of the chapter and points to ponder. Sections include:the history of the bookorality to Literacyliteracy to printingauthors, authorship and authorityprinters, booksellers, publishers, agentsreaders and readingthe future of the book. An Introduction to Book History is an ideal introduction to this exciting field of study, and is designed as a companion text to The Book History Reader.