Petroski Henry. The Toothpick: Technology and Culture

Alfred a Knopf Inc. 2007 — 472 p. — ISBN 9780307266361, 0307266362.Celebrating the extraordinary aspects of the simplest of implements, a fascinating and quirky history of the toothpick ranges from ancient Rome to the present day, examining the ubiquitous item in its various forms and designs, its colorful applications through time, and the modern toothpick manufacturing industry.Preface.
Prologue.
The Oldest Habit.
Artifacts and Texts.
Sucksacks and Whiskers.
Poor Goose!
Out of the Woods.
Made in Portugal.
Charles Forster in Pernambuco.
From Pegs to Riches.
A Family Affair.
Going Where the Wood Is.
An Article for the Million.
Advice and Dissent.
The Nasty Instrument.
The Toothpick Man.
Cords of Paper Birch.
Trade Secrets and Closed Doors.
Other Toothpicks.
New Uses for Old.
Maurice, Oscar, and the Industry.
The Tragic Heiress.
Exeunt Oscar and Maurice.
Foreign Affairs.
Old Gold and Good Wood.
Boxed and Unboxed.
Woodpeckers and Other Dispensers.
Talking Round a Toothpick.
The Fatal Martini.
Improving on Perfection.
The Butler Did It.
Epilogue.
Notes.
Acknowledgments.
Illustrations and Credits.
Index.