Panati's Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things (original 1987; udgave 1987)

The title "Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things" is somewhat misleading as only a handful of the origin stories Panati covers could be described as anything more than somewhat interesting. Granted, there are a few eye opening origins studied, such as how barbiturates were created and others also held my interest but, even beyond the lack of extraordinariness, the facts that its 1980s publication and its America-centeredness also leave one underwhelmed.

There is still content to pique your interest though, so don't give up on this too early. ( )

different edition (pub. by B&N, by arrangement with HarperCollins Pub.)

Okay, you guys, I finally did it! It's a very long book, over 400 pages, and it's not like I need to be like oh, wait, I can't remember what the origin of Father's Day is, so I can't figure out the origin of ice cream! I love knowing more facts and be able to bust out "Actually ..." and then explain what I've learned! ( )

A fun read. ( )