And That's Where Glass Came From

The Substance Of Civilization by Stephen L. Sass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this book most compelling where it deals with ancient discoveries and advancements. The author does well to put those simple but profound leaps into context.

The science of the almost-present (written in 1998) is pretty well done, mostly readable, but is less compelling. I took a long hiatus and eventually came back to finish it, pushing through some parts that don't quite sparkle.

All in all, a decent popularization of science and useful general overview of the importance of pottery and bronze and iron and steel and polymers and the like for people who enjoy such things--writers and wide readers and who knows who all.

Lots to learn, still.

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