Introduction
The world of books is vast and diverse, with countless titles and genres to choose from. From children’s picture books to epic novels, there is something for everyone to enjoy. However, one book stands out among the rest for its sheer size and grandeur – the world record holder for the largest book. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history and details of this enormous book, and uncover the story behind its creation.
What is the Largest Book in the World?
The largest book in the world is a remarkable work titled “Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom”. It was created by Michael Hawley, a scientist, and author, in collaboration with renowned photographer Michael Yamashita. The book measures an astounding 5 ft by 7 ft when opened, and weighs a whopping 133 pounds. It consists of 112 pages, each of which is a stunning photograph of Bhutan, a small country nestled in the Himalayan mountains.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
The idea for creating the largest book in the world came to Michael Hawley during a trip to Bhutan in 2003. He was captivated by the beauty and culture of this remote kingdom and wanted to share it with the world. He envisioned a book that would be a work of art, both in terms of its content and its physical size. With the support of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and the Prime Minister, Lyonchen Jigme Y. Thinley, Hawley’s dream became a reality.
The Creation Process
Creating a book of this size was no easy feat. It took a team of 50 people, including photographers, designers, and printers, over 6 years to complete. The photographs were taken using a high-resolution digital camera, and each image was carefully selected to showcase the beauty and diversity of Bhutan. The design of the book was also given special attention, with intricate details and traditional Bhutanese patterns incorporated into the layout.
Unveiling and Public Display
After years of hard work and dedication, the world record holder for the largest book was finally unveiled on May 25, 2012, in Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu. The ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister, members of the royal family, and other dignitaries. The book was then displayed in various locations around the world, including New York, London, and Tokyo, before finally finding its permanent home in Bhutan’s National Library.
The Impact of the Book
Apart from holding the world record for being the largest book, “Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom” has also made a significant impact on Bhutan’s tourism industry. The book has inspired many people to visit this beautiful country and experience its culture and traditions firsthand. It has also helped to promote Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which focuses on the well-being and happiness of its citizens rather than just economic growth.
Challenges and Controversies
While the creation and display of the largest book in the world were met with widespread appreciation and admiration, it also faced some challenges and controversies. Some critics argued that the book was more of a vanity project and questioned the need for such a large and expensive publication. Others pointed out that the book could have been made more accessible to the public if it was published in a smaller size.
Conclusion
The world record holder for the largest book, “Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom”, is a testament to human creativity, determination, and ingenuity. It has not only broken a world record but has also brought attention to the beauty and culture of Bhutan. This remarkable book will continue to inspire and awe people for years to come, and its legacy will live on as a symbol of Bhutan’s rich heritage.