It began in Antiquity, says optical engineer Willach, with wafers of quartz that were shaped by grinding, probably for decoration rather than optical use. Citing examples of lenses in museums, many of which he has tested himself, he describes the grinding technology, reading stones and the first dioptrical vision aids, glass technology and the invention of spectacles, the development of spectacles through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and modern lens grinding technique developed during the 16th century. There he slows down, looking at particular events, people, and literature that contributed to what is now called the telescope. Annotation 2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
