Shawat M. Toorawa Ibn Abi Tahir Tayfur and Arabic Writerly Culture: A Ninth-Century Bookman in Baghdad. RoutledgeCurzon, 2010. Routledge Studies in Arabic and Middle Eastern Literatures, 7. 9780415595896 xiii/214 pages. Softcover volume, measuring approximately 6.25" x 9.25", is in near fine condition, with remnant of white price sticker in lower inside corner of rear cover. Binding is sound. Interior is clean and bright. "Toorawa re-evaluates the literary history and landscape of  third to ninth century Baghdad by demonstrating and emphasizing the significance of the important transition from a predominantly oral-aural culture to an increasingly literate one. This transformation had a profound influence on the production of learned and literary culture; modes of transmission of learning; nature and types of literary production; nature of scholarly and professional occupations and alliances; and ranges of meanings of certain key concepts, such as plagiarism. In order to better understand these, attention is focused on a central but understudied figure, Ibn Abi Tahir Tayfur (d. 280 to 893), a writer, schoolmaster, scholar and copyist, member of important literary circles, and a significant anthologist and chronicler. This book will appeal to anyone interested in Arabic literary culture and history, and those with an interest in books, writing, authorship and patronage."