The Toothpick: Technology and Culture

Got this for my father-in-law along with really great toothpicks and a box to keep them in, since they play a lot of card games involving "everyone gets 6 toothpicks" etc whatever, Amazon suggested this book and it really made the gift. he says its a really great book, and when we visit next i am sure he is going to have lots of annoying toothpick stories.

this book is a gift, but I haven't parted with it yet because it is such fascinating reading....the history is interesting, but the remainder of the book speaks volumes about the declining quality of goods available in this country ...the evolution of the toothpick (there are NO standard wood toothpicks made in USA, they are all made in China boxed splinters) says it all...

This book is incredibly well researched and written, but the author knew that. I was recommended this book after expressing to a friend I loved to learn about the most basic aspects of humanity and design. This was perfect to suit those needs and was still inviting and thought-provoking enough to be challenging, fun, informative and downright toothpicky. I won't go into such details as my previous reviewers have, but I just want to say this book delivers!

Fans of Dr Petroski's previous books will know what to expect and will enjoy his latest effort as always. The attention to detail and history that are the hallmark of previous books are in evidence. Recommended as always

A little more than I need to know about the toothpick, but Petroski makes it interesting.

An interesting and entertaining read.

this was a gladly accepted gift. try reading the pencil which is also written by this author.

Great Job!