Dr Ian Alcock is a UK enthusiast of toy and moveable books.
This talk was given at the Morrab Library in Penzance in February 2024 and discusses early examples of :
flap transformation books
lift-the-flap books,
paper doll books,
pop-in-the-slot books
hole books
moving figure books
tab activated transformation picture books
hold-to-light books
pop-up books
Also included are brief comments on the history of abc flash cards, jigsaw books, magnet books, sticker books, transfer books, wheel books, finger puppet books, instrument books, sound books, scratch-n-sniff books, and book/toy box sets.
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Excitingly, the International Centre on Interactive Books in Italy has initiated groundbreaking research on the description and terminology of animated and interactive books, focusing on preliminary methodological and linguistic considerations. The goal of this project is to develop a specialized glossary that comprehensively defines and categorizes these unique book formats.
The initial findings of this ongoing project were presented in an article by Eliana Angela Pollone, Jacqueline Reid-Walsh, and Pompeo Vagliani, titled Prima del glossario. Riflessioni di tipo linguistico e metodologico sui libri interattivi, published in JIB – Journal of Interactive Books, Vol. 3, 2024. This article delves into the complexities of establishing terminology for interactive books, which encompass formats such as pop-ups, movable books, panoramas, and digital interactive works.
The authors emphasize the necessity of creating a comprehensive glossary to provide clarity and consistency in describing the diverse range of interactive books. They highlight the challenges involved, including addressing the evolution of these formats over time, the convergence of physical and digital media, and the varying interpretations and uses of terms across cultures and academic disciplines.
This research marks a significant step towards standardizing the language used to describe interactive books, a field that has long been characterized by diverse and sometimes inconsistent terminology. The establishment of a glossary aims to bridge gaps in understanding and facilitate clearer communication among collectors, scholars, publishers, and enthusiasts. By providing precise definitions, the glossary will also support future research and cataloging efforts, ensuring that these works are accurately represented in academic and archival contexts.
The importance of this endeavor cannot be overstated. Interactive books, whether historical or contemporary, offer a unique blend of artistry, storytelling, and engineering. Yet, the lack of standardized terminology has often led to confusion, especially when comparing works across different regions and eras. For instance, terms like "pop-up" and "movable" are sometimes used interchangeably, even though they refer to distinct mechanisms and styles.
The article Prima del glossario serves as a foundational discussion, setting the stage for further research. It proposes preliminary criteria for categorizing interactive books, such as their functional and aesthetic characteristics, and outlines the linguistic challenges of translating terms into multiple languages while preserving their specific meanings. The authors also stress the need to account for the historical and cultural contexts in which these books were produced and consumed.
To expand this initiative, the International Centre on Interactive Books plans to form a dedicated international working group. This group will bring together experts from various fields, including linguistics, bibliographic studies, and interactive design, to collaboratively refine and expand the glossary. By incorporating diverse perspectives, the working group aims to create a resource that is both academically rigorous and practically useful.
The formation of this glossary represents a pivotal moment for the field of interactive books. It has the potential to unify disparate terminologies, enhance scholarly research, and enrich public appreciation of these intricate and dynamic works. As this project progresses, it will likely inspire similar efforts in related fields, further advancing our understanding and celebration of interactive literature.
