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Loading... The Origin of Everyday Things (edition 2007)by Johnny Acton (Author)
Work InformationOrigin of Everyday Things by Think Books
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Sign up for LibraryThing to find out whether you'll like this book. No current Talk conversations about this book. IF YOU buy this book as a present, be sure to buy two — the contents are so fascinating that with just the one, the intended recipient of your largesse will never get their copy once you have dipped into the contents. From Aerosol Can (prototype 1790) to Zipper (1893) and everything in between, Origin is a mesmerising account which constantly urges “just one more page”. Did you know that pizza was probably invented by the Ancient Greeks and was only revived in the 1830s when a pizzeria opened in Naples? Warning: if you want to enjoy any form of relationship with your spouse, hide it: this book is as addictive as any drug. ( ) no reviews | add a review
History buffs, science students, lovers of popular culture, and natural-born detectives will plunge right into this ultimate guide for curious minds. It’s absolutely fascinating, with background on the origins of more than 300 modern phenomena, objects, sayings, stories, and superstitions that most people take for granted. Complete with humorous illustrations and easy-to-navigate chapters, the eye-opening explanations and amazing anecdotes reveal the truth behind the birth and brilliance of the brown paper bag; the 4000-year history of toothpaste and its torrid past; and the reasons for the staying power of popular puzzles from Rubik’s Cube to sudoku. Find out why we have nature to thank for Velcro, Valium, and the Guggenheim; why we get the blues and not the reds; and why Heinz has the Romans to thank for its saucy success. Guaranteed to absorb, amuse and delight, it’s also a great way to impress friends with your arcane knowledge! No library descriptions found. |
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Google Books — Loading... GenresMelvil Decimal System (DDC)032.02Information Dictionaries and Encyclopedias English Miscellanies and FactbooksLC ClassificationRatingAverage:
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