Octavo
From Free net encyclopedia
Octavo has more than one meaning:
- In bookbinding and publishing, octavo indicates the book size which results when eight leaves of the book are created from a standard size sheet of paper. Each leaf is usually printed on each side, so this creates a signature of 16 printed (or intentionally blank) pages in total. In modern common usage, an octavo size book is 8-10" tall, which is the most common size for modern hardbound books. Often abbreviated as 8vo, 8° or 8o. It was introduced by Aldus Manutius of Venice, when he produced Virgil's Opera in the octavo format, in 1501, in order to facilitate portable reading for men of leisure.
- The Octavo is a grimoire in the Discworld series by Terry Pratchett