Books like mental floss presents Condensed Knowledge by Will Pearson

Christopher, a boy with Asperger’s syndrome, discovers that his neighbor’s dog has been murdered and sets out to solve the mystery with his unique analytical skills.

Bill Bryson turns the universe into a conversational guide, tracing science from the Big Bang through evolution, geology, chemistry, astronomy, and particle physics with humor and clarity.

Rolf Dobelli presents 99 concise chapters that explain everyday cognitive biases, showing how awareness can sharpen decision‑making at work and in life.

Mental Floss presents In the Beginning explores the surprising origins of everyday objects and concepts, offering bite‑size facts that reveal the untold stories behind the familiar.

A vibrant collection of trivia that links the world’s most curious facts, from Greek mythology to popcorn, Humpty Dumpty to history, and beyond—fun, witty, and filled with unexpected connections.

Think of anything bad, from art heists to Genghis Kahn, and it's likely to be included in this wickedly smart and humorous guide to the seedy underbelly of basically everything. The brainiac team at "mental_floss", creators of the hit magazine and last year's Condensed Knowledge, have scoured the darkest, dirtiest corners of history and the globe to gather this ultimate collection of the bad stuff you're not supposed to know and you certainly never learned in school. Organized by theme, with chapters for each of the seven deadly sins, the book includes feuds, plagiarists, hoaxes, lies, schemes, scandals, evil dictators, mob bosses, acts of revenge, angry queens, cannibals and much more, all organized into bite-sized—albeit foul-tasting—lists (i.e."The Fascist Style Guide: Five Dictator Grooming Tips", “Four Biblical Girls Gone Wild" and “Three Delicious Animals We Charbroiled Into Extinction."). It's the perfect way to add some spice to a dull conversation and proves that learning can be not only easy, but exquisitely sinful.

A playful guide encouraging readers to pursue extraordinary goals by drawing inspiration from historic geniuses and celebrating admiration for oneself.

Discover where everyday things—from clothes to languages—and legendary human inventions like Christianity and Ferrari cars began, and learn about the explorers, scientists, and inventors who traced their origins.

A handy collection of 100 bite‑size anecdotes that showcase the wonder of everyday facts—spanning science, sports, and pop culture.

Back in the Day offers practical advice on traditional skills—from soap making to tree felling—and explores uncommon pursuits such as pyramid construction and castle siege tactics.