Just what goes into the making of a book?

Keith Houston explores the fascinating history of the illuminated manuscript and travels to the windswept coasts of Ireland - the home of the rebirth of this mysterious artform.

This is an exploration behind the elements that go into the creation of one of life's most powerful and precious objects - 'The Book'.

From the creation of parchment and paper to the the materials that we use now, this is a delightful dip into the long and often surprising history of one of the world's most important information technologies.

Read by Deborah Findlay

Abridged by Libby Spurrier.

Producer: Celia de Wolff

A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in May 2018. Show less