Bizarre Things We've Done to Our Bodies

Gr 3–6—The past-tense titles are somewhat misleading, since historical and contemporary examples of each subject are featured. Chapters six-to-eight pages in length discuss aspects of the main topics, using examples of bizarre customs and practices from around the world. Eaten and Medicine are the stronger titles, highlighting the steady progress that has transformed medicine and nutrition. Bodies and Sport emphasize regional and cultural development of body decorations and sports, respectively. Large, serviceable color photos and period illustrations are included. Terms are defined in text boxes, and "Bizarre Facts" sidebars add interesting tidbits. As is typical in this type of book, there's a decent gross-out quotient and terms such as poop, which will draw in readers, but much of this material can be found either in books about specific countries and cultures or in the many extant sets about disgusting topics published in recent years.