Publisher Description

A follow-up to Helterbran's popular Why Flamingos Are Pink: …and 250 other Things You Should Know, this entertaining volume identifies more of the surprising explanations for the facts, tales, and lore associated with day-to-day living and the world around us. Organized into seven categories, this book tells you why birds perched on power lines aren't electrocuted; the origins of such expressions as "swan song" and "willy nilly;" and the science behind such phenomena as ball lightning, blue glaciers, red tide, and thunder snow. More than a mere compendium of trivia, this book is a springboard for learners of all ages.

Author Biography

Valeri R. Helterbran writes a weekly column for the Ligonier Echo and is Professor of Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She lives in Ligonier, PA.

Review

[A] choice reference and trivia book, not to be overlooked. -- The Midwest Book Review, USA

Long Description

A follow-up to Helterbran's popular Why Flamingos Are Pink: ...and 250 other Things You Should Know, this entertaining volume identifies more of the surprising explanations for the facts, tales, and lore associated with day-to-day living and the world around us. Organized into seven categories, this book tells you why birds perched on power lines aren't electrocuted; the origins of such expressions as "swan song" and "willy nilly;" and the science behind such phenomena as ball lightning, blue glaciers, red tide, and thunder snow. More than a mere compendium of trivia, this book is a springboard for learners of all ages.

Review Quote

[A] choice reference and trivia book, not to be overlooked.

Details