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Edward Brooke-Hitching

Madman's Library: The Greatest Curiosities of Literature

Madman's Library: The Greatest Curiosities of Literature

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  • More about Madman's Library: The Greatest Curiosities of Literature

The Madmans Library is a fascinating and beautifully illustrated journey through the history of literature, uncovering the strangest books ever written and the stories behind their creation. It is a unique and richly illustrated collection ideal for book lovers, with books written in blood, books that kill, books of the insane, and books that hoaxed the globe.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd


Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of books in this remarkable masterpiece. BBC Radio 4's Book of the Week has declared it a triumph, appealing to anyone with a deep appreciation for the printed word. This captivating and erudite work is a true celebration of literature in all its forms.

One of the loveliest books to have been published in recent years, it has garnered widespread praise from critics and readers alike. Author Alexander McCall Smith has once again delivered a literary gem that will leave book lovers spellbound.

Described as the best gift for any book lover this year, or perhaps ever, The Madmans Library is a unique and beautifully illustrated journey through the entire history of literature. It delves into its darkest territories, seeking out the most peculiar and extraordinary books ever written. From books written in blood to books that kill, from books of the insane to books that hoaxed the globe, this collection uncovers a vast array of strangeness that will leave you both fascinated and bewildered.

What makes this library even more remarkable is the fact that many of these books have been completely forgotten, lost to the annals of time. Books written in blood, books that kill, books of the insane, books that hoaxed the globe, books invisible to the naked eye, books so long they could destroy the Universe, books worn into battle, books of code and cypher whose secrets remain undiscovered, and a few others that are simply weird—all of these extraordinary volumes have been gathered together for a unique and richly illustrated collection that is ideal for every book-lover.

The Madmans Library is a testament to the boundless creativity and imagination of human beings. It showcases the vast range of human eccentricities and the lengths to which we will go to explore the depths of our minds. From the 605-page Qur'an written in the blood of Saddam Hussein to the gorgeously decorated 15th-century lawsuit filed by the Devil against Jesus, this book covers a wide spectrum of strangeness that is sure to captivate and intrigue.

Furthermore, the book delves into the lost art of binding books with human skin, a practice that was once prevalent in certain cultures. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail bring these forgotten practices to life, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of literary history.

In conclusion, The Madmans Library is a must-read for anyone who loves books and the wonders of the written word. It is a triumph of literature, a celebration of the human mind, and a testament to the power of storytelling. Prepare to be transported to a world of eccentricity, wonder, and imagination as you explore the depths of this extraordinary library.

Weight: 992g
Dimension: 200 x 256 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471166914

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