A new book and a new take on the history of publication, written by literary figure, Michael Visontay, was launched at Gleebooks last night, awash with fine wine and good cheer.
The deeply researched book takes a look back 100 years to what is described as 'a crime against history' in breaking up the world's greatest book, the Gutenburg Bible. The Bible was the first substantial book in Europe printed on an ancient metal printing press.
Visontay acknowledged his gratitude to his wife, Aviva Lowy, a senior journalist and editor, for her support and crucial editing advice in the free flow of narrative needed to deal with such significant research material. The story involves a New York bookseller's 'act of literary vandalism' during the Gatsby era of the 'Roaring Twenties'. When he broke the Gutenburg Bible into parts for sale 'they sold like hot cakes and he died a rich man'.
But the story doesn't end there. Visontay found a connection between the bookseller and his own family which meant his final work, Noble Fragments, is 'part detective story-part memoir'.
Visontay's writing approach might be described as dealing with historic research with a light inviting touch, including chapter headings such as, 'Talking about my revelation', 'You're no beauty yourself!' and 'Kings Cross confidential'.
Highly recommended!
Michael Visontay's Noble Fragments, published by Scribe, is available through local bookstores as well as major internet booksellers in paperback and kindle.
Copyright: text & photos cv williams.
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