'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday, 6 March 2024

Review: History FACTopia

The fifth title in the entertaining and educational FACTopia series, concentrates on global history. It brings the past into the present, allowing exploration of things mostly unknown.

It trails through 400 facts of which many are linked in subject but can be read at random.

This book is for children and adults, as it has unbelievable, amazing, incredible, frequently funny facts about our world, the people and places in it.

For fans of trivia and short informative bits and pieces, these books should have a place on your bookshelf to be dipped into whenever you choose, simply for pleasure.

Interesting and rare subjects pop up.

Some you have never considered, or heard of, like hair archaeology, female martial arts, medieval tapestry, great and small buildings, and buildings found beneath the sea, like the 3,000-year-old castle in a lake in Turkey.

The first selfie goes back to 1839.  There are many firsts for women, secret trivia about Cleopatra, Dracula, Queen Elizabeth 1, and lots of shocking, stomach churning facts as well.

There is no taboo subject. Paige Towler has chosen her themes, so not a boring entry exists. Lots of bizarre subjects are covered from taxing pee from public toilets to UFOs.

Glossaries of historical terms, cultures, civilisations, peoples, and periods are referred to. Sources are listed for further information.

Andy Smith’s out there illustrations are hilarious. Presented in vivid colour and design, they complement the excellent informative prose.

If you haven’t looked at any of the FACTopia books, you should, because they are an unforgettable experience.

Title: History FACTopia
Author: Paige Towler
Illustrator: Andy Smith
Publisher: Walker Books, $25.99
Publication Date: 1 November 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781804660409
For ages: 8+
Type: Junior Non Fiction