Milton's Teeth and Ovid's Umbrella: Curiouser and Curiouser Adventures in History

by Michael Olmert

Book Overview

We've been taught that history is the story of great events and important people -- but is it? In Milton's Teeth and Ovid's Umbrella, Michael Olmert shows how the most ordinary artifacts of everyday... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0684801647
• Release Date: June 1996
• Publisher: Touchstone
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.5" x 0.8" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Great professor...great book!

I was fortunate enough to get Prof. Olmert at Univ of MD...an excellent lecturer whose great sense of humor and wit comes through this book. He delves into the origins of football, what does toothbrushes have to do with industrial revolution...and my personal favorite chapter - how horse-racing influenced fashion...! A definite read for anyone who likes history, the origin of commonplace items, or the trivia afficinado!

A rare historical treat

Olmert has a unique style and wit that begs for more and more adventures! His historical insights are a real treat for all ages.

Fantastic writing

Filled with delightful insights and food for the imagination, Olmert's book highlights the path of man's ingenuity. Addictive and astute read.

A Wonderful peice of creative non-fiction

Michael Olmert provides an entertaining and educational glimpse into the history of everyday events and items. As a student of his I found his writing unique and inspiring, this book is a must have.

curiosity is a good thing

If you are interested in one particular subject, then this book is a good starting place for scholars that can use the bibliographical references. Olmert's style of writing is easy to understand and he offers the reader a wealth of interesting tidbits. For those who love trivia, this book is for you.