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Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things by…
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Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things (original 1987; edition 1989)

by Charles Panati

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1,1901116,410 (3.98)6
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.
Member:Soltries
Title:Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things
Authors:Charles Panati
Info:Harper Paperbacks (1989), Paperback, 480 pages
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Panati's Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things by Charles Panati (1987)

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» See also 6 mentions

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trivia
  ngoonen | Oct 20, 2023 |
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. ( )
  MiaCulpa | Aug 26, 2016 |
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! ( )
  AmberTheHuman | Aug 30, 2013 |
A fun read. ( )
  Tryion | Mar 28, 2008 |
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. ( )
  AlexTheHunn | Oct 8, 2007 |
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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.

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