The A to Z of Everyday Things

Illustrated by Francis Blake
Paperback
$8.95 US
On sale Nov 09, 2004 | 128 Pages | 9780887766718

See Additional Formats
Why are Americans superstitious about two-dollar bills?
Why do we have twelve months in a year instead of ten, or six, or even twenty?
Why do we celebrate foolishness on the first day of April?
Why is yawning contagious?
Why is the number thirteen considered to be unlucky in so many different cultures?

The A to Z of Everyday Things tells the surprising stories behind twenty-six seemingly ordinary objects and activities. From calendars and money to tulips and sideburns, this book uses commonplace items to explore the rich but often overlooked cultural history of our everyday lives. In the end, The A to Z of Everyday Things offers us a picture of modern life and how we got here in a funny, quirky, and highly readable form.
© Michael Springgay
JANICE WEAVER is a highly respected editor and the author of several acclaimed works of nonfiction for young people. Building America and From Head to Toe: Bound Feet, Bathing Suits, and Other Bizarre and Beautiful Things were each named Notable Books by the International Reading Association. From Head to Toe was also a finalist for both the Rocky Mountain Book Award and the Ontario Library Association's Red Maple Award. She is also the author of Mirror with a Memory: A Nation's Story in Photographs. Janice Weaver enjoys sailing near her home in Toronto, Ontario. View titles by Janice Weaver
Francis Blake has been an illustrator for as long as he can remember. His artwork has appeared in magazines, books, and advertising materials across North America, Europe, and Asia. He is the illustrator of From Head to Toe and The A-Z of Everyday Things, both published by Tundra Books. View titles by Francis Blake

About

Why are Americans superstitious about two-dollar bills?
Why do we have twelve months in a year instead of ten, or six, or even twenty?
Why do we celebrate foolishness on the first day of April?
Why is yawning contagious?
Why is the number thirteen considered to be unlucky in so many different cultures?

The A to Z of Everyday Things tells the surprising stories behind twenty-six seemingly ordinary objects and activities. From calendars and money to tulips and sideburns, this book uses commonplace items to explore the rich but often overlooked cultural history of our everyday lives. In the end, The A to Z of Everyday Things offers us a picture of modern life and how we got here in a funny, quirky, and highly readable form.

Author

© Michael Springgay
JANICE WEAVER is a highly respected editor and the author of several acclaimed works of nonfiction for young people. Building America and From Head to Toe: Bound Feet, Bathing Suits, and Other Bizarre and Beautiful Things were each named Notable Books by the International Reading Association. From Head to Toe was also a finalist for both the Rocky Mountain Book Award and the Ontario Library Association's Red Maple Award. She is also the author of Mirror with a Memory: A Nation's Story in Photographs. Janice Weaver enjoys sailing near her home in Toronto, Ontario. View titles by Janice Weaver
Francis Blake has been an illustrator for as long as he can remember. His artwork has appeared in magazines, books, and advertising materials across North America, Europe, and Asia. He is the illustrator of From Head to Toe and The A-Z of Everyday Things, both published by Tundra Books. View titles by Francis Blake

Books for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Every May we celebrate the rich history and culture of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Browse a curated selection of fiction and nonfiction books by AANHPI creators that we think your students will love. Find our full collection of titles for Higher Education here.

Read more