What is an ancient text in book form called?

A book in ancient times that was constructed in the form of bound pages rather than rolled scrolls is referred to as a codex. This format allowed for easier access to information, as it enabled readers to flip through pages rather than unroll a scroll. The codex played a significant role in the preservation of texts and contributed to the transition from scrolls to books as we know them today.

While other terms like "manuscript" do refer to written texts, they can denote any hand-written work, not specifically those bound in book form. A "chronicle" generally refers to a historical account of events in chronological order and doesn't necessarily indicate a specific format. Thus, the term that most accurately describes an ancient text in book form is codex.