Blooks: The Art of Books That Aren't

by Mindell Dubansky

From safes to spice racks, sewing kits to snake gags, book-shaped objects are everywhere. Why are they so appealing? Mindell Dubansky suggests that for hundreds of years, makers and manufacturers of 'blooks" - objects that look like books but aren't - have infused everyday objects with bookish qualities in order to capitalize on the emotional connections we have with our favorite books or with the experience of reading. This is a profusely illustrated catalog of the first survey exhibition devoted to the history of blooks that will appeal to amateur and professional book-lovers, designers, artists, collectors and material culture enthusiasts. The objects represented in this catalog are all from Ms. Dubansky's personal collection. Photos are accompanied by fascinating descriptions. There is an introductory essay by Miriam Schaer as well as essays by Ms. Dubansky.

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2016