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The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Beas They Are. Paperback - 1994
by Henry Petroski
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Petroski tells fascinating stories about the arduous processes that resulted in paper clips, Post-its, Phillips-head screwdrivers, Scotch tape, and fast-food "clamshell" containers. "Petroski . . . an examines the simplest . . . tools in our lives with an appraising eye".--Washington Post Book World. 45 illus.
Reader reviews for The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Beas They Are.
Review summary
Readers found Henry Petroski's examination of everyday objects intellectually rewarding but stylistically challenging. The book's central thesis—that form follows failure rather than function—resonated with many, and specific case studies about paperclips, forks, and zippers fascinated audiences. However, critics consistently noted that Petroski's academic writing style, heavy reliance on technical detail, and repetitive reinforcement of his argument made the book a laborious read. Many felt the book would have benefited from more engaging prose, better illustrations, and tighter editing. Overall, it was viewed as thought-provoking content undermined by pedestrian presentation.
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From the publisher
From the jacket flap
Petroski tells fascinating stories about the arduous processes that resulted in paper clips, Post-its, Phillips-head screwdrivers, Scotch tape, and fast-food "clamshell" containers. "Petroski . . . an examines the simplest . . . tools in our lives with an appraising eye."--Washington Post Book World. 45 illus.
Details
- Title The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Beas They Are.
- Author Henry Petroski
- Binding Paperback
- Edition Reprint
- Pages 304
- Volumes 1
- Language ENG
- Publisher Vintage, New York
- Publication date 1994-02-01
- Illustrated Yes
- Features Bibliography, Illustrated, Index
- ISBN 9780679740391 / 0679740392
- Weight 0.48 lbs (0.22 kg)
- Dimensions 7.96 x 5.24 x 0.65 in (20.22 x 13.31 x 1.65 cm)
- Category History - General History
- Library of Congress subjects Inventions, Patents
- Library of Congress Catalogue Number 93006351
- Dewey Decimal Code 609
Media reviews
Citations
- Rec Ref Bks in Paperback, 01/01/2000, Page 93
About the author
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The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to be as They are
by Petroski, Henry
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The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to be as They are
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The Evolution of Useful Things: How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to be as They are
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The Evolution of Useful Things : How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Be As They Are
by Henry Petroski
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The Evolution of Useful Things : How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Beas They Are
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The Evolution of Useful Things : How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to Beas They Are
by Petroski, Henry
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- Used
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