Thomas F. (hardtack) - , reviewed on 12/31/2022 + 2586 more book reviews

This book describes really interesting remedies throughout history. I can handle the remedies people in earlier times believed in, but it's amazing what people will fall for even in the 20th and 21st centuries. All want an easy road to health and will believe the most fantastic ideas. Whereas, staying healthy means eating well, exercising and avoiding bad habits, like smoking. But that's too much trouble for some. Especially, not when you can simply swallow tapeworm eggs to lose weight.

As an entomologist, I'm still stunned by the idea some athletes believe "giant hornet vomit gives you a competitive edge."
Just google that text in quotes to see what I mean. Of course, I guess it is easier to drink that than to work out.

While an interesting book, I gave it only three stars due to what is mentioned in the book's description... "and not a little dash of dark, knowing humor." It seems the authors believe they are late-night comedians and felt obliged to make funny comments on every page. I'm not talking one or two, but several to many. After a while it got a bit tiresome.

One thing I learned about public speaking is some humor is okay, but don't overdue it or your audience will stop listening to your real message.

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