Arnold, Katie. Big Book of Useless History Knowledge, The: 250 of the Coolest, Weirdest, and Most Unbelievable History Facts You Won’t Be Taught in School. Liz Kay, Illus. Addl. Creators Lauren Grierson, Hattie Hearn, et al. Neon Squid, 07/2026. 208pp. Nonfiction. Trade $24.99. 978-1-68449-585-6. GRADES 4–8. ADDITIONAL.
Although the facts covered in this book are unlikely to be on a test, this will please trivia fans and those who like books of world records and top ten lists. This contains brief, one-paragraph entries of facts throughout history, grouped by topics such as leaders, wars, places, and sports and games. Tidbits include Cleopatra hiding in a rolled-up carpet to visit Caesar and the origin of decorating a Christmas tree with popcorn (from the South American tradition of using popcorn to decorate headdresses and necklaces). The full-color, cartoonish illustrations resemble gouache and include jokes in dialogue balloons to add interest. Although this is not an essential library purchase, it will be great for the child who may not be interested in books or reading.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool