Panati's Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things

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.

This book is great fun - one of those you read in little bursts, picking and chosing as you will. Along the way you pick up bits of almost useless info but one never knows when it will come into use.

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!

Reference material, interesting just to read however, information on the origins of such things as Kleenex, Mother Goose, zippers, safety pins, etc.

A fun read.

Ripping good.

For lovers of facts, students of popular culture, history buffs, and science enthusiasts, the fascinating stories behind 500 everyday items, expressions, and customs--from Kleenex to steak sauce, Barbie Dolls to honeymoons