With plenty of gory stories and fascinating examples, this series is a fun and fascinating read. But it also exposes the reasons behind the sometimes unappealing methods people have historically employed in a quest for beauty. Social, scientific, historical and commercial aspects all play a part in understanding the context behind the stories.

Murderous Make-up

by Anita Croy

Published 28 November 2019
Did you know that a Roman woman was executed for selling poisonous lipstick that women kissed their husbands to death with? Throughout history, people have turned to strange and often unappealing make-up in a quest for beauty. From geishas to Cleopatra and Elizabeth I to radium teeth, this book uses fascinating facts and stories to help children understand the historical, commercial and social aspects of  weird and wonderful make-up.

Dangerous Diets

by Anita Croy

Published 5 September 2019
Did you know that Ancient Egyptian priests ate food that damaged their hearts? Or that Elvis Presley took pills to stay asleep just to stop himself from eating? Throughout history, people have turned to strange and often unappealing diets. From cannibals to rations, fasting to tapeworms, this book uses fascinating facts and stories to help children understand the historical, scientific and social aspects of our weird and wonderful diets.

Horrible Haircare

by Anita Croy

Published 3 October 2019
Find out how society and culture has influenced hairstyles throughout history. Did you know that Louis XIV employed 48 wigmakers? From wigs to beehives and the Beatles to sideburns, this book uses fascinating facts and stories to help children understand the historical, scientific and social aspects of weird and wonderful haircare.