Silk, the Thread that Tied the World by Anthony Burton is a nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on November 30 2021. Over a thousand years ago the Chinese discovered that the slender filaments that formed the cocoon of the silk moth, could be woven into beautiful shimmering fabrics. For centuries they were able to keep the process a secret, but eventually started to trade the valuable cloth with the west, along the silk road. Silk was a luxury item that bestowed prestige, so it was inevitable that the wealthy wanted there silks to be as elaborate as possible, beautiful designs were produced in the Islamic world and gradually a European industry developed. In the 19th century mechanization of the time consuming hand weaving process, had resulted in products being produced using the Jacquard loom, which used punched cards to create a pattern. Silk remains the most beautiful woven material in the world, moving from its origins in ancient China to help transform the whole world.
Silk, the Thread that Tied the World is a well researched and written book that taught me quite a bot about a topic I have never thought to explore before. I thought the history of the industry was interesting to read, and the descriptions and chosen images were nicely matched. I thought the writing was accessible and generally easy to follow. I will admit to getting bogged down in some of the more technical explanations, such as the innovations and functionality of the looms. I might have also liked to see a more extensive bibliography or suggestions for further reading on this topic and related subjects, as I enjoy follow done the rabbit whole in researching subjects once my interest in piqued on a topic. However, as a whole I enjoyed the read and learned quite a bit. I think those interested in the subject will not want to miss this read, and other will learn a great deal and enjoy the read as well.
