Infographica

May 15, 2014

Clever cover graphics will entice patrons to take a closer look at this title. Brothers Martin and Simon Toseland (365 Everyday Games and Pastimes) offer humorous, out-of-the-ordinary, and somewhat mocking records, facts, and statistics: the world's hottest peppers, YouTube clips with the most hits, recognizable cars from James Bond films, Shakespearean characters with the most lines, iconic 20th-century hairstyles, worldwide seizures of cannabis, bite strengths of various animals, radiation levels in bananas, and much more. Did you know that the largest snowflake ever observed was in Montana? Have you ever heard of the Norwood Scale for male pattern baldness? The book contains a useful table of contents and is a fun mix of U.S., UK, and world facts. The lack of an index is disappointing, however, and some of the data, e.g., cigarette prices worldwide, countries with the most McDonald's restaurants, and largest national debt, will be quickly outdated, which somewhat affects the book's worth. But the real value lies in the innovative, stylish illustrations, diversity of the topics, and the sheer entertainment factor, making this is a great coffee-table or gift book. VERDICT This unique, visually tempting compendium is a must for trivia junkies or curious researchers who appreciate witty and surprising facts. An affordable, recommended read for high school and public libraries.--Bobbie Wrinkle, McCracken Cty. P.L., Paducah, KY

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