Guinness World Records 2018 - Hardcover

In 1951, Sir Hugh Beaver, the then managing director of the Guinness Brewery, went on a shooting party and became involved in an argument. Which was the fastest game bird in Europe - the golden plover or the grouse? He realized then that a book supplying the answers to this sort of question might prove popular. He was right! Sir Hugh's idea became reality when Norris and Ross McWhirter, who had been running a fact-finding agency in London, were commissioned to compile what became The Guinness Book of Records. The first edition was bound on August 27, 1955, and went to the top of the British bestseller lists by Christmas that year. Since then, Guinness World RecordsT has become a household name and the global leader in world records. No other enterprise collects, confirms, accredits and presents world record data with the same investment in comprehensiveness and authenticity.

Gr 3–6—It's hard for anyone interested in trivia or pop culture to ignore the lure of a new Guinness book. Kids will want to get their hands on this shiny, metallic, oversize volume. There are more categories than ever, including "most underpants pulled on in one minute!" But there are serious topics as well and lots of spotlights and photos of people who unleash their "inner superheroes." A chapter honors imaginary superheroes, while another section recognizes real "superhumans." The book lets readers know that they, too, can be the best in whatever they attempt, be it strength, endurance, intelligence, or persistence. There are copious records devoted to sports, transportation, animals, and music and pop culture. Preteens will likely be excited to learn about the highest-earning celebrities. And don't miss the eating records, such as the fastest time to drink a bottle of ketchup (32.37 seconds). VERDICT A solid addition to most collections, especially where additional facts or trivia offerings are needed.—Sharon Verbeten, Brown County Library, Green Bay, WI