The Perfection of the Paper Clip: Curious Tales of Invention, Accidental Genius, and Stationery Obsession - Paperback

by James Ward (Author)

Change the way you look at office supplies forever with this wonderfully enlightening and quirky exploration of the fascinating backstories of everyday objects, such as the humble and perfectly designed paper clip and the utilitarian, irreplaceable pencil.

How many of humanity's brightest ideas started out on a scrap of paper or in the margins of a notebook? In a delightfully witty and fresh voice, James Ward--cofounder of the Boring Conference and collector of the arcane--explores the secret histories of deskbound supplies, from pencils to fluorescent ink, and the gleaming reams of white paper we all take for granted, encouraging a deeper appreciation and fascination for the things that surround us each day.

In the spirit of The Evolution of Useful Things and A History of the World in 100 Objects, Ward transforms the mundane into remarkable stories of invention, discovery, and even awe. The Perfection of the Paper Clip is "a hugely entertaining experience for the reader...this engaging book is an absolute must" (Booklist).

Author Biography

James Ward is the cofounder of the Stationery Club and the Boring Conference, featured in The Wall Street Journal and The Observer (London). His blog I Like Boring Things, has been featured in The Independent and on the BBC website. He lives in London, and The Perfection of the Paper Clip is his first book.