The history of writing is an epic that spans 6,000 years, from the valleys of the Tigris and Euphrates to the shores of the Mediterranean. From hieroglyphics and cuneiform to the invention of printing and the rich world of modern lettering, this book by a professor of linguistics and semiology presents writing1s mysterious course as it has evolved through the ages. The book is richly illustrated with color photos and drawings providing examples of writing, such as medieval illuminated manuscripts, and pictures of people who played an important role in the history of the development of writing and printing. There are even sections on writing music, and calligraphy, and games with letters.