Title: More Curious Questions

Author: Martin Fone

Genre: Non-fiction

More Curious Questions addresses a plethora of curiosities ranging from the mundane to the complex. A sequel to Fifty Curious Questions and a product of the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine, the questions in this book are reflective of the often random and curious places our thoughts go to when our minds are left to wander.

Fone takes great care to write clearly and concisely, making some of the more complex explanations digestible and easy to follow. Each question is answered in just a couple of pages and are independent of each other, making this a great coffee table book or the perfect fit for someone who likes to start and stop books often. The book is also written in the first-person perspective, which lends a personable tone that helps keep the book from sounding academic or impersonal.

The book pops readers into different times in history as we explore some of the smallest and biggest changes humans have experienced. One of the special features of the book is that it highlights some of the smallest questions that are rich in nuance. For example, “does Earl Grey tea have anything to do with Earl Grey?” is fascinating because not only does it explore the tea’s components, but it also discusses the time period and how international trade played a role in the tea name’s complicated history.

Some questions in the book touch on topics, concepts, and phrases that all readers can relate to. Others, however, are very specific. For example, one of the questions discusses “the $64,000 question.” Though still interesting, this phrase isn’t commonly used and has lost its relevance in pop culture over time, so some readers may not understand this reference.

The Trivia Galore chapter is one of the more tedious sections to read, perhaps because it doesn’t have a focused theme. Since it is the last chapter in the book, answering these questions in an even shorter, rapid-fire format could have helped keep readers engaged with the final questions.

To round out the book, including citations from where the author found all the information would show readers what kind of research went into answering these questions. Without citations, readers are unable to locate the sources if they want to explore certain topics or questions further.

The fan favorite section is sure to be the Food and Drink chapter. One of the most enjoyable questions to read about is, “was there a Granny Smith?” The answer to this question takes us on a short, but sweet, journey through the real Granny Smith’s discovery of the unique apples that have become a staple in every fruit-lover’s home. The most successful answers to questions in this book were ones like these, that told a short story to give context and paint a picture for the reader.

For history buffs and curious people, More Curious Questions is funny, engaging, and jam-packed with answers to some of life’s most curious features. Many Curious Questions feature ideas many have wondered but never investigated. The results are a fascinating look at specific intersections of history and our interactions with the natural world. From colloquialisms to wine bottles to toilet paper, in More Curious Questions, readers will be sure to find anecdotes and facts that will peak their interests.

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.