Crazy, Totally Awesome Facts

This wide-ranging book covers a plethora of topics relating to the natural world, science, technology, and the universe. Subtopics in each broad category are explored in spreads dominated by assemblages of photos large and small; the pages are dotted with informational bursts touching on topics such as global eating habits, geological disasters, and world records. In a section titled "Peculiar Plants," for example, readers learn that "Cacti are considered to be like water reservoirs, and although their inner liquid is not pure, it is drinkable." A spread devoted to world monuments and landmarks introduces structures including the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty and notes that "The longest nose on Mount Rushmore belongs to George Washington." Trivia-obsessed kids and visual learners should find this an engrossing overview of the world and beyond. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. (Apr.)