Michael Burgan Releases Weird But True From Natl Geographic Kids

The Middle Ages come to life in this latest installment in the hit Weird But True Know-It-All series, featuring stories of legendary rulers, epic castles, menacing weaponry, and more! Vikings are known for being fierce warriors. But did you know that they used tug-of-war to train for battle—and that the losing team was pulled into a pit of fire? Europe was ravaged by the plague during the Middle Ages. But did you know that the secret ingredient in one cure concocted by medieval doctors was … “dragons’ blood”?! Jest in case you were wondering—you could actually get paid in medieval times for playing the fool. But only a few wealthy nobles and kings hired fools, or jesters, so getting into that business wasn’t easy. One lucky jester named Roland le Pettour received land when he retired. Roland’s skills included whistling—and farting! Go beyond the Middle Ages of Europe to explore great empires around the globe, including Ottoman, Shona, Aztec, and the Song dynasty. From Joan of Arc to Genghis Khan, incredible inventions to eyebrow-raising medieval medicines, you’ll know it all by the time you finish this book. Packed with important historical information along with the wackiest and weirdest facts ever about the Middle Ages!