Face with Tears of Joy

by Keith Houston
Face with Tears of Joy cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Technology and Innovation
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Waterstones
Paperback • £14.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2235
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781324075158
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published: 2025-07-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

This book delves into the fascinating history of emoji, from its birth in 1990s Japan to its widespread use in modern communication. It explores how emoji has become a integral part of our digital language, influencing politics, movies, and even our personal relationships. /n/n The author, Keith Houston, examines the ever-expanding lexicon of emoji and considers its future in a rapidly changing world. This comprehensive history offers a fresh perspective on how these small images have reshaped the way we express ourselves.

Reviews
Spectrum Culture · 2025-08-21
fascinating 4.20

They are captivated by the quirky stories behind emoji creation. They find the book to be a fascinating exploration of digital communication.

The reviewer is charmed by the quirky anecdotes and stories about the people who created emojis and those who decided which ones would become part of our digital lexicon. They appreciate the book's ability to make the subject matter accessible and engaging. The reviewer also notes how the book provides a unique perspective on the impact of emojis on our daily communication, highlighting both their simplicity and complexity.

Quick quotes

    Full of quirky stories about the people who created emojis and others who determined which would become part of the ...

    The book provides a unique perspective on the impact of emojis on our daily communication.

    A fascinating exploration of digital communication.

The Guardian · 2025-07-08
enlightening 4.00

They explore the fascinating evolution of emojis and their cultural impact. It's a thoughtful examination of how these symbols shape modern communication.

The reviewer dives into the unexpected journey of emojis, highlighting their linguistic quirks and the way they've become a universal language. They appreciate the depth of research and the engaging storytelling, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in language and technology. The reviewer also notes how the book reveals the hidden complexities and cultural nuances behind these seemingly simple symbols.

Quick quotes

    A deep dive into the surprising uses and linguistic shortfalls of the ubiquitous symbols.

    The book reveals the hidden complexities and cultural nuances behind these seemingly simple symbols.

    It's a thoughtful examination of how these symbols shape modern communication.

The Telegraph · 2025-07-05
informative 4.50

They find the book to be a lively and informative account of emojis. They praise its exploration of the science and culture behind these digital symbols.

The reviewer enjoys the lively and engaging narrative that Keith Houston employs to tell the story of emojis. They highlight the peculiar science behind the rise of emojis and how the book sheds light on their cultural significance. The reviewer also appreciates the blend of humor and meticulous research, making it an entertaining and educational read. They note how the book successfully demystifies the creation and evolution of emojis.

Quick quotes

    A lively account of those little yellow faces, reveals the peculiar science behind their rise.

    The book sheds light on their cultural significance.

    A blend of humor and meticulous research, making it an entertaining and educational read.

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