Product Description

This reference looks at the key moments in history when endeavour has created a breakthrough. Every aspect of human invention is covered, from science to holiday, toys to cigarettes, cars to crosswords. The prime firsts of each subject sit alongside "timelines" of the most relevant "first" events after the invention, illustrated with the adverts that made them famous and the earliest designs for each article. It provides complete portraits of the evolution of some of the most integral parts of our lives today, from computers to the humble cup of tea. The reference includes: the first photograph; the first bikini; the first printed book; the first organ transplant; the first fax; the first credit card; the first calculator; the first computer; the first teabag; the first CD; the first hamburger; the first flight across the Channel; the first telephone call; the first fountain pen; the first television; the first vacuum cleaner; the first website; the first mobile phone; the first crossword; the first film; the first teddy bear; the first pop group[; the first cloned sheep; the first stamp; the first parachute jump; the first record; the first skyscraper; the first firework.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #598854 in Books
• Published on: 2003-10-09
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 288 pages

About the Author
Ian Harrison has researched and written a number of books on subjects ranging from ancient battlefields to modern airports, three historical books written in conjunction with The Times newspaper and he co-wrote Crown and Country which was adapted from the television series of the same name. He has also written a series of aerial photography titles for Getmapping.com

He worked first as a researcher for television documentaries and then in publishing. Television research included entering the weird world of inventors and inventions, hunting for pirate treasure, investigating the two heads of Cromwell and delving into the wit and wisdom of branding.

Customer Reviews

The Book of Firsts: amazing
This book is very exciting to read and look at. Very easy to dip in and out of. Opening at different sections you soon get drawn in. It covers in a very comprehensive way all sorts of "firsts" - many of things that we just take for granted in our day-to-day lives which when you reflect based on this book really were quite amazing and really breakthrough. This book will be a sure fire Christmas, birthday and corporate gift book!One that will be devoured not just flicked through. It is very entertaining as well as informative.

Great ideas
My 8 year old nephew enyoyed this for a christmas pressie. Perfect for long distance uncles..........