What do you really know about giraffes? Did you know the Queen of Norway is the sworn enemy of giraffes? Did you know that giraffes invented plastic? Are you aware of the fact that giraffes came to Earth on a conveyor belt from Neptune? THIS BOOK HAS PICTURES TO PROVE IT. You’re laughing, but it’s true. Seriously. ( )

Hilarious! ( )

An absolutely hilarious mock nature book. ( )

This is one of the funniest books I have ever read. Its beautifully illustrated and aimed at impressionable children who may well believe any old lies thrown at them as facts rather than discerning adults who may well doubt that giraffes came here directly from Neptune. Rather than continue with my thoughts, I will just add the book description:

"For many years the scientific and educational community has wondered and worried about the possibility that semi-sane scholar-pretenders would find the means to put out a series of reference books aimed at children but filled with ludicrous misinformation. These books would be distributed through respectable channels and would inevitably find their ways into the hands and households of well-meaning families, who would go to them for facts but instead find bizarre untruths. The books would look normal enough, but would read as if written by people who have eaten too many lead-based paint chips. "Giraffes? Giraffes!" is the first in a proposed series of 377 reference books, all written by a couple now getting their chance to twist and tickle the brains of the impressionable. The book puts forth the following novel theories: that giraffes were not part of any evolutionary chain, but came here from Neptune, by way of very long (but convenient and fast) escalators; that giraffes are expert dancers, but become angry if asked about their dancing; that giraffes control over 90 percent of what we see in mirrors; and that the Giraffe navy is as strong as ever, contrary to recent claims in the popular press." ( )

Of all the books I read for this class I shared this one the most with my students/faculty. After reading various sections several students, along with teachers asked where they could purchase it. After these conversations I realized the importance recommendations impact interest. Simply recommending this very humorous book made others want to read it. I actually already used this text in my theatre class. I read several selections and then placed a tub of props in the middle of the room. The students worked in partnerships and had 2 mintues to come up with a fake orgin or purpose for the item. It was hilarious to hear them create a tale of historical fiction. I would also use this book for writing prompts as well. ( )