As we approach the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther posting his 95 Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Church in 1517, Pettegree (history, St. Andrews Univ., Scotland;
The Invention of News) examines the Reformation, the early days of the publishing industry, and Luther himself. One focus of the book is Luther as a skillful communicator and master of his brand. His expertise allowed him to become the "world's first mass-media figure." Additionally, he was able to be wildly successful in religion, art, publishing, and business. While the topic is dense, this is an appealing and informative work. The narration by Paul Hecht adds inflection and emotional heft.
VERDICT Recommended for most history and religion collections. ["Well researched and well written, this essential book is for anyone remotely interested in Luther or early modern technology": LJ 9/15/15 review of the Penguin Pr. hc.]
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