• Block printing probably originated in China. The letter of Chinese alphabets were carved in mirror writing on large wooden blocks. The ink would be applied to the entire block, and then paper was pressed against the block. The oldest surviving printed book is the Buddhist text, Diamond Sutra and dates to 868 A.D.
• Movable type was invented around 990-1051 A.D. by Bi Sheng of China. He carved single letters on small pieces of clay or wood instead of carving the whole book on a single block. The blocks could be rearranged and reused.

The invention of the computer, microprocessor, and the internet has created a major digital transformation to books. E-books (electronic books) have become common.

However, nothing can change the fact that a book in any form - physical books, e-books or audiobooks, remains a pleasure.

• In the 1440s, Johannes Gutenberg started to experiment with movable types. He made a metal movable type system of casting letters with screw press and hand mould. The machine was semi-mechanic but was very effective.
• The first complete book printed on the movable type was the Gutenberg Bible in 1455. 180 copies were created - 45 were printed on vellum (fine parchment) and 135 on paper.
• Gutenberg's invention led to a revolution in printing all over Europe. By the late 15th century, 20 million books were published as well as newspapers, magazines, and other media.