Recs if you like The Pencil: A History of Design and Circumstance...

microhistory: the intensive historical investigation of a well defined smaller unit of research (such as an event, community, individual or a settlement); it aspires to "ask large questions in small places"

More niche nonfiction and microhistories, but this list is focusing on important, memorable, and significant inventions in the world's history. Suggestions welcome!

books on books, writing, words, etc. fiction and non-fiction included