Library Chit Chat - 27 April 2009
Last modified: April 27, 2009 - 11:03 AM
People of the Book
I have just finished reading Geraldine Brooks’ novel the People of the Book. What an interesting read this was. The book was inspired by the true story of an ancient manuscript known as the Sarajevo Haggadah.
I liked the way that the People of the Book provides a detailed history of this manuscript from when it was created in Muslim-ruled, medieval Spain to when it is rediscovered 5 centuries later. This manuscript is considered priceless and is one of the earliest Jewish
volumes ever to be illuminated with figurative paintings.
In the story, Australian and rare book expert Hanna Heath is offered the job of analysing and conserving the manuscript. Hanna is passionate about her work and uses this opportunity to unlock the long kept secrets of the book. This book gives a fascinating insight into the job of a rare book conservator and how tiny artefacts found in a book’s binding can be used to trace the history of the book. Everything from an insect wing fragment to salt crystals are examined by scientists to help explain the book’s past…and what a past it has had.
We will be discussing the People of the Book at the Yass Library Book Club on Thursday 7th May at 6pm. New members are always welcome.
Yass Library is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm, Thursday 9.30am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm. Murrumbateman Library is open Saturday 10am to 1pm.
Contact details
Yass Valley Library
Tel: 02 6226 1305
Fax: 02 6226 3994
library@yass.nsw.gov.au
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