While researching the DuraGear Flexible Shaft Screwdriver, I saw a reference to this book by Witold Rybczyski and wound up getting a copy through PaperBackSwap. It’s fascinating (well, for me at least, but then I really enjoyed the “History of Engineering” course I took lo those many years ago in college) account of when and where the screwdriver and screw were invented. No mention is made of the illusive laser-guided screwdriver, but it does offer lots of other interesting historical information starting with Archimedes and progressing through Peter L. Robertson* and beyond.
Given that you can pick up a copy for $5 or less, I would say this is a good and economical read.
*including his invention of the Wrench-Brace (apparently an early multi-tool combining a brace, monkey wrench, screwdriver, bench vise, and rivet maker); if anyone has any information about this device, I would be interested, as my web searches for details have been futile.
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3 Responses to A Good Read: One Good Turn
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I read this a while back and it was a nice quick read. I really enjoy seeing book reviews here now.
Thanks for this post. I just ordered a copy. I love the interwebs. 🙂
I’ve read a number of such single topic, highly focused books in the past. Ones on salt, cod and forks for example. I look forward to reading about screwdrivers. 🙂
Read it. Loved it. Highly recommend it, even to non toolmongers.