Henry Petroski

The Pencil by Henry Petroski traces the origins of the pencil back to ancient Greece and Rome. Petroski writes factually and charmingly about its development over the centuries and around the world, and shows what the pencil can teach us about engineering and technology today.

An eminent engineer and historian tackles one of the most elemental aspects of life: how we experience and utilize physical force. “Another gem from a master of technology writing.”—Kirkus Reviews Force explores how humans interact with the material world in the course of their everyday activities. This book for the general reader also considers the significance of force in shaping...