String: Unravel the Secrets of a Little Ball of Twine

by Adam Hart-Davis

"String" gathers together every strand of information on string to weave a fantastic overview of this multi-faceted material. This book presents a captivating look at string, from its first development in prehistoric times and the ancient building of the pyramids through different cultural uses to the latest scientific applications and even touches on the "string theory." Throughout the book are practical uses of string, whether you need to secure a fishing hook or a shoelace, tie up your roast turkey, create an impressive "string figure," or simply play a game. Illustrated with over 200 2-color drawings, this quirky subject matter is embodied in the distinctive aesthetic of the book, complete with a string-tie binding. It will surprise most readers to discover that such a simple thing as string has so many varied and interesting uses, with a special appeal across ages and culture. The seven chapters *"Roping Yarns" an overview of string including its long history, its varieties, and how its made *"String-a-long" shows all the many fun games and crafts and includes other intriguing facts and statistics *"Get Knotted" has step-by-step instructions that explain how to tie all the most useful knots *"Loopy Science" reveals the ingenious ways in which string has helped, or occasionally hindered, scientific discoveries "String" will fascinate and inform readers on in almost every aspect of string from music and sports to science and games.

Genres: History

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

British photographer, writer and broadcaster.

Reviews

[Harriet Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

An easy to read, informative book about the history of, and uses for, string.

[Bernie4444 · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than just String Theory

There is more depth to this book than you can imagine.
Just some of the things that cover our:
Knowledge Ropes
String History
String, Rope, and Religions
Day-To-Day String
String Fanatics
Knots
Shoelace He
Cultured String
Sporty String
Discoveries and Inventions
String Theories
on Land
at Sea String Miscellany
String Websites

These are just titles but the book goes into depth on each subject including illustrations and practical applications.

You won’t be strung out reading this book.

[J M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got thisbook at a deep discount but found it to be a good addition to my bookshelf. I have used it with my grandsons and I am sure they will remember the time we spent learning about "string" and all the knots we have tied together. now when we shop they are on the lookout for different strings and instruct me on what it could be used for. They have even talkid about who will get the book when i am dead and gone... boys... 11-13 to funny.

[Azra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had this book for a while before I got around to reading it. It was an interesting read and now I know how to approximate the weight of a hog, using only a length of rope, should I ever be in a situation where I need that information.

Thank you, String.

[Joshua Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good history and cultural analysis of string. It's written in a personal style and is enjoyable to read.