Birmingham, Maria

"This nonfiction illustrated book for middle grade readers explores why and how people have had fun over the course of human history"--Provided by publisher.

"While you brush your teeth and turn out the light, animals all over the world are getting ready for bed in their own unique ways. Otters snuggle under seaweed blankets, plump walruses use their throat pouches as pillows, and just like putting on pajamas, parrotfish cover themselves with a coat of slime before bed. Drawing on scientific research, this nonfiction book for young readers playfully compares the ways humans and animals prepare for a good night's sleep. On one page, a child dozes during a car ride or cuddles up to their parents in bed. Flip the page, and readers will . . . [discover] how other creatures catch some z's"--Provided by publisher.

"Maria Birmingham explores many of the surprising ways that humans behave just like animals. Topics covered: farming, teaching, laughing, mourning, building, using tools, communicating, grooming, playing, working together, travelling. Paired with Dave Whamond's humorous cartoon-style illustrations, this nonfiction book will show kids that it's entirely okay to act like an animal--we can't help it!"--Provided by publisher.

A guide to biometrics and the science behind security.

"Is it possible to live forever? People have been trying to figure out a way to escape mortality since, well, forever. This book takes readers on a fast-paced tour of several wacky and wise methods humans have used to try prolonging their lives, from ancient immortality elixirs and quests for a fountain of youth to modern-day research into cryogenics and robotics"--Amazon.com.

Looks at several distinctive disorders of the brain.

Uncovers the "other" sports you've probably never heard of, including chasing a giant wheel of cheese down an English hillside, toe wrestling, and playing football with over 200 people per team.

Discusses a number of strange and amusing sports such as chess boxing and wok racing and other humorous sports-related stories and trivia.