Why Things Are

I loved this book and have read it a million times. The "special report" parts are the best. Achenbach's writing style is great, but his sense of humor doesn't really do anything for me. He may be trying to emulate his friend Dave Barry a bit too much. I think I would have enjoyed it even more if he _hadn't_ tried to be funny so much. All in all an interesting and informative book. Ivan Rorick

Joel Achenbach knows a lot of stuff about a lot of stuff. More importantly, he's willing to go out and ask people when he doesn't know (and doesn't mind giving credit when credit is due, which gives the answers more authority.) Although not as funny as Cecil Adams, his book is still an excellent read. Unlike some authors in this genre, I've never known him to spend pages on dumb, obvious, or other softball questions. In addition to answering questions, he's also got essays, which I liked less well. The book also comes with cartoons, which are quite funny.

Ever wonder...about everything? Joel Achenbach does. And he writes about it, too, in a literate-but-fun style (think The Straight Dope's Cecil Adams with a Ph.D) that makes this collection of questions from his former newspaper column a real joy to read. Especially recommended are the chapters on the natural world, "creeping surrealism", and, of course, Dave Barry's introduction. Lots of fun for inquiring minds!