The Wonderful World of Books
What is the oldest known printed book in the world?
- "The Diamond Sutra" is a Buddhist text from China that was printed in 868 A.D. using a woodblock printing technique.
Who is considered the father of the modern printing press?
- Johannes Gutenberg is credited with inventing the modern printing press in the 15th century, which revolutionized the way books were produced.
What is the oldest known manuscript of the Bible?
- "The Codex Sinaiticus" is a 4th century manuscript of the Bible, containing the oldest complete copy of the New Testament.
Who wrote the first novel in history?
- Murasaki Shikibu, a Japanese noblewoman, wrote "The Tale of Genji" in the early 11th century, which is considered the first novel in history.
What was the first book printed using movable type?
- "The Gutenberg Bible" was the first book to be printed using movable type, in 1455.
What is the oldest known surviving manuscript of Shakespeare's plays?
- "The First Folio," published in 1623, is the earliest surviving manuscript of Shakespeare's plays.
What is the largest book in the world?
- "The Codex Gigas," also known as “The Devil's Bible”, is the largest book in the world, weighing in at 165 pounds.
Who is credited with inventing the modern paperback book?
- Allen Lane, founder of Penguin Books, is credited with inventing the modern paperback book in 1935.
What is the most expensive book ever sold?
- "The Codex Leicester," a manuscript written by Leonardo da Vinci, was sold for $30.8 million in 1994.
Who is the most translated author in the world?
- Agatha Christie, the British mystery writer, is the most translated author in the world, with her books available in over 100 languages.
