Week 11 Prompt

 

Burning the books, a history of the deliberate destruction of knowledge written by Richard Ovenden, 2020

1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum? a mix

2. What is the subject of the book? The destruction of knowledge in libraries and archives from ancient up to contemporary times. 

3. What type of book is it? History/nonfiction

4. Articulate appeal:

• What is the pacing of the book? Leisurely paced but it also isn't a story that feels like a slow and  quiet read, due in part to the vivid descriptions of the destruction of libraries and archives. 

• How does the story feel? Moving, Reflective, Thought Provoking, Hopeful

• What is the intent of the author? To provide a history of how libraries and archives have been destroyed throughout history. 

• What is the focus of the story? Early historical accounts of the destruction of libraries and archives and then moving forward in time with additional stories and examples. 

•  Does the language matter? Yes, the story is in a conversational tone, making it easy to follow along with the historical accounts. The author uses descriptive phrases like "swooned over" which makes the story read like a love letter to the history of books, libraries and learning. 

• Is the setting important and well described? Yes, the author does a great job of describing the context and setting of where the destruction of knowledge took place. 

• Are there details and, if so, of what? Yes, each chapter focuses on a different point in history and explains the who, what, when and why the destruction took place. 

• Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear? Yes, there are black and white images spread throughout the book, with each chapter beginning with an image that is related to the chapter’s topics. Letters, quotes, and journal entries are also included throughout the story to provide insight into the historical events. 

•  Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience? Yes, the author frames each occurrence of destruction within a historical and cultural context. The author connects these past events with more current concerns of our time, discussing the rise of technology companies, the role of libraries, and the history of early libraries and how library collections have evolved to present day.

 5. Why would a reader enjoy this book (rank appeal). This book would appeal to anyone who values the written word and learning and is concerned about efforts to destroy and ban books. 

1. Compelling
2. Detailed
3. Easy to Understand