This endlessly fascinating and informative book traces the origins of the Roman alphabet from the Sinaitic peoples in approximately 1500 BC to our modern English alphabet today. Each letter's written development is shown, from Sinaitic to Phoenician to Early Greek to Classical Greek to Roman. The original meaning of each letter, what they were called, the switches in pronunciation, and even when they were taken out, replaced, and reinstated, is all covered in simple, easy to understand text that creates a story out of the words we use everyday. Illustrations highlight how people might have once seen letters, and give insight into their ancient lives. The history of the alphabet-and paper, printing, and the language of mankind--has never been so readily understandable and engrossing. 48 pages, softcover.
