Every now and then, people ask me what kind of books I like, and I guess I’m a fan of ‘brand new books.’ New books are pristine, sharp-edged, and still carry that fresh-from-the-paper-mill scent. They’re like newborns taking their first breath, or sacred calls before the morning dew dries up. That’s why I love bookstores and always start at the new releases section in libraries. Amongst the fresh pages, I stumbled upon a book titled ‘What Did You Do to Mechanical Pencils?’…
This book, penned by an engineer who shares his unique view on the mechanics of mechanical pencils, features detailed breakdowns and reviews of various products on the market. It’s like the ultimate chapter of obsession. I always thought I liked stationery, but compared to this author, I’m just someone who buys a pencil because I need to write. 📚✏️
The beginning of the book gives a thorough explanation of the parts and functions of mechanical pencils and their operational mechanisms. It then delves into innovations within the pencil industry, explaining concepts like automatic lead ejection, lead protection, even-wear prevention, and lead output regulation, each illustrated in detail. Amazingly, the author drew these illustrations himself (seems like someone who values every second!). Reading through the descriptions of around 80 different mechanical pencils makes it clear he’s tried them all. Even a stenographer would find it challenging! 😲
The latter part of the book even covers how to modify mechanical pencils, but it’s more of a showcase of what he’s capable of rather than a tutorial. Honestly, who could replicate that? As the book progresses, the passion becomes so intense it made me want to close it, but I was curious about what a pencil enthusiast would recommend, so I read on. Little did I know I’d read until the ‘Epilogue’! 📖✨
Here’s a sneak peek into what it includes,
Life Companion Pencils
- Pentel Vicuna (Focus on Realism)
- Java Phoenix 2 (Realism + Portability)
- Pentel Kerry (For that Elegant Feeling)
Pencils to Stockpile Before They Disappear
- Pentel Vicuna
- Tombow Monograph Zero
- Jeno X5 (0.3mm)
- Zebra Espina
- Tombow Orno
Just a heads up. But maybe I’ve overdosed on pencil reviews because I don’t feel the urge to revisit and buy them. 🤔
Lastly,
Apparently, pencil companies aren’t removing eraser pins for cost-saving reasons, nor do wooden pencils absorb sweat for a better grip.
Not that you were dying to know. 😅
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