Keith Houston explores the rich history of the book as a physical object. Read by Deborah Findlay.

We're often advised not to judge a book by its cover. However, publishers put a lot of thought into creating book designs that make particular titles appeal to particular kinds of readers.

In her newest book to be translated into English, “Vanishing World,” she examines a society in which all children are born through artificial insemination. The parents who exploit their kids ...