Ultimate, The - Hardcover

The author of Big Secrets and Bigger Secrets here presents another engaging volume that will settle some arguments and give rise to others. He offers resolutions to all manner of questions, from determining the most difficult holes in golf to the most popular American tourist attractions. Readers will be reassured to learn that the finest baseball player of all time was Babe Ruth; the most profitable investment is stocks in small companies; and the San Diego zoo is the world's best. American chauvinists will be surprised to discover that the tallest building in the world is in Konstantynow, Poland, and the hardest tongue twister comes from West Africa. Divided into sections on sports, adolescence, extravagance, world records, games and Americana, the book provides much amusement and much ready information.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

YA-- Fans of trivia and endless discussions on topics concerning "the best," "the greatest," " the toughest," and "the most" will welcome Poundstone's witty and provocative essays. Records that are merely listed as statistics or one-line facts in other handbooks receive lengthy consideration and research. This book aims to set the record straight on the best zoo, the greatest fishing spot in the world, the toughest crossword puzzle, and the most ingenious college prank, as well as numerous other ultimates. Poundstone may think he is having the last word, but his book is sure to provoke continued discussions among fans of "facts" who are constantly looking for one more argument to settle a debate. It's unfortunate there's no index.
- Mary T. Gerrity, Queen Anne School, Upper Marlboro, MD
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.