"Originally published in Great Britain by Simon & Schuster UK Ltd., 2020." -- title verso

Books that aren't books -- Books made of flesh and blood -- Cryptic books -- Literary hoaxes -- Curious collections -- Works of the supernatural -- Religious oddities -- Curiosities of science -- Books of spectacular size -- Strange titles

"The Madman's Library reveals the fascinating stories behind some of the strangest and most beautiful books ever created in a highly illustrated tour through an eccentric "library" of literary curiosities and wonders"--

Brooke-Hitching has hunted down the oddest books and manuscripts ever written, uncovering the intriguing stories behind their creation. From the Qur'an written in the blood of Saddam Hussein, to the gorgeously decorated fifteenth-century lawsuit filed by the Devil against Jesus, to the most enormous book ever created, his book features many long forgotten, eccentric, and extraordinary volumes gathered from around the world. Spell books, alchemist scrolls, wearable books, edible books, books written by ghosts-- these and more come together in a captivating compendium perfect for anyone intrigued by bizarre oddities, obscure history, and the macabre. -- adapted from jacket