How Long to Read A Social History of the Chinese Book

How Long Does it Take to Read A Social History of the Chinese Book?

It takes the average reader 5 hours and 17 minutes to read A Social History of the Chinese Book by Joseph P. McDermott

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

In this learned, yet readable, book, Joseph McDermott introduces the history of the book in China in the late imperial period from 1000 to 1800. He assumes little knowledge of Chinese history or culture and compares the Chinese experience with books with that of other civilizations, particularly the European. Yet he deals with a wide range of issues in the history of the book in China and presents novel analyses of the changes in Chinese woodblock bookmaking over these centuries. He presents a new view of when the printed book replaced the manuscript and what drove that substitution. He explores the distribution and marketing structure of books, and writes fascinatingly on the history of book collecting and about access to private and government book collections. In drawing on a great deal of Chinese, Japanese, and Western research this book provides a broad account of the way Chinese books were printed, distributed, and consumed by literati and scholars, mainly in the lower Yangzi delta, the cultural center of China during these centuries. It introduces interesting personalities, ranging from wily book collectors to an indigent shoe-repairman collector. And, it discusses the obstacles to the formation of a truly national printed culture for both the well-educated and the struggling reader in recent times. This broad and comprehensive account of the development of printed Chinese culture from 1000 to 1800 is written for anyone interested in the history of the book. It also offers important new insights into book culture and its place in society for the student of Chinese history and culture. 'A brilliant piece of synthetic research as well as a delightful read, it offers a history of the Chinese book to the eighteenth century that is without equal.' - Timothy Brook, University of British Columbia 'Writers, scribes, engravers, printers, binders, publishers, distributors, dealers, literati, scholars, librarians, collectors, voracious readers — the full gamut of a vibrant book culture in China over one thousand years — are examined with eloquence and perception by Joseph McDermott in The Social History of the Book. His lively exploration will be of consuming interest to bibliophiles of every persuasion.' - Nicholas A. Basbanes, author of A Gentle Madness, Patience and Fortitude, A Splendor of Letters, and Every Book Its Reader Joseph McDermott is presently Fellow of St John’s College, Cambridge, and University Lecturer in Chinese at Cambridge University. He has published widely on Chinese social and economic history, most recently on the economy of the Song (or, Sung) dynasty for the Cambridge History of China. He has edited State and Court Ritual in China and Art and Power in East Asia.

How long is A Social History of the Chinese Book?

A Social History of the Chinese Book by Joseph P. McDermott is 308 pages long, and a total of 79,464 words.

This makes it 104% the length of the average book. It also has 97% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read A Social History of the Chinese Book Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 7 hours and 14 minutes to read A Social History of the Chinese Book aloud.

What Reading Level is A Social History of the Chinese Book?

A Social History of the Chinese Book is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy A Social History of the Chinese Book?

A Social History of the Chinese Book by Joseph P. McDermott is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

To buy A Social History of the Chinese Book by Joseph P. McDermott on Amazon click the button below.