Magia portátil explores the history of books and readers

Reading mediator José Cruz Domínguez has recommended the book ‘Magia portátil’ by Emma Smith, published in Mexico by Ariel. The work offers an alternative history of books and their readers, exploring the relationship between physical objects and society through various historical eras.

The research covers topics such as the origins of pocket books, early book collectors, and the 19th-century concept of ‘bibliadidad’. It also examines historical moments including the book trade involving the Titanic, the history of gift-giving during holidays, and instances of book burning, specifically referencing events in 1973.

Additionally, the book explores the material evolution of publications, from talismanic books and traditional binding to the rise of electronic books and ‘non-books’ such as audiobooks.