Books are more than just paper and ink. Their world is filled with secrets, records, and astonishing stories that are hard to believe. Here are 10 of the most fascinating facts about books.
1️⃣ The First Printed Book Originated in China, Not Europe
Many believe that the history of printed books began with Gutenberg and the Bible. However, the oldest printed book is the Buddhist text “Diamond Sutra,” published in 868 AD in China. It was printed using wooden blocks and is now housed in the British Library.
📌 China utilized printing technology 600 years before Europe!
2️⃣ There Are Books That Cannot Be Read
Artist Thomas Waitz created a book titled “Silence,” with pages made of glass and no text. Instead of words, you see your own reflection. The author states: “Sometimes a book speaks without words,” reminding us to listen to ourselves.
🎭 A book as a mirror, a book as silence.
3️⃣ The World’s Smallest Book
In Japan, a book titled “Theater of Flies” was created, measuring just 0.07 mm × 0.10 mm. It contains text, illustrations, and even pages. Reading it requires a microscope.
🔬 This book is smaller than a grain of salt!
4️⃣ A Book Worth $30 Million
The “Codex Leicester” is Leonardo da Vinci’s scientific notebook on nature, light, and water. In 1994, Bill Gates purchased it for $30.8 million. Later, its pages were digitized and made available to the public.
💡 Leonardo was not only an artist but also a scientist.
5️⃣ The Most Translated Book in the World
The Bible is the undisputed leader in translations: fully translated into over 700 languages and partially into more than 3,500 languages. New translations continue every year.
🌍 This book is a heritage of all humanity!
6️⃣ An Author Who Writes a Book Every Month
American writer Liza Thatcher has penned over 1,300 books, primarily romance novels. She could produce several books a month, showcasing her talent and discipline.
✍️ Inspiration doesn’t wait—it comes with work.
7️⃣ A Novel Without the Most Common Letter
In English, the letter “E” is the most frequently used. However, in Ernest Wright’s 1939 novel “Gadsby,” this letter doesn’t appear even once. This technique is called a lipogram—deliberately avoiding certain letters.
🤯 A novel without “E”? That’s a true literary challenge!
8️⃣ One Novel Equivalent to Seven
French writer Marcel Proust authored “In Search of Lost Time,” spanning 7 volumes and 1.2 million words. It deeply explores human memory and emotions.
🧠 This isn’t just a book—it’s an entire psychological universe.
9️⃣ A Library No One Has Read Yet
Norway is home to the “Future Library” project: each year, a renowned author submits a manuscript that won’t be read until 2114. At that time, all 100 books will be published. A special forest is being grown to supply the paper.
🌱 These aren’t just books—they’re a trust in future generations.
🔟 Books That Have Saved Lives
During wars, books were hidden underground, within walls, and in boxes to preserve culture and national memory. Today, some books help people overcome hardships and find the strength to live on.
📦 A book—sometimes a remedy, sometimes a shield.
✨ Conclusion
Books are more than just paper and ink. They are beloved friends that preserve the soul, history, and future of humanity. Reading, thinking, and finding inspiration with them is a true joy.