Panati's Parade of Fads, Follies, and Manias: The Origins of Our Most Cherished Obsessions

Charles Panati, the celebrated author of the wildly successful *Extraordinary Origins of Everyday Things*, returns with *Panati's Parade of Fads, Follies, and Manias*. In this delightful and illuminating volume, Panati delves into the fascinating history of the last century, unearthing hundreds of frivolous fads, foolish follies, and humorous hits that have captivated and defined our collective obsessions. From the bizarre to the beloved, this book offers an engaging exploration of the ephemeral trends that have shaped popular culture and human behavior. Enhanced by 125 charming woodcuts, *Parade of Fads, Follies, and Manias* provides a witty and insightful retrospective, perfect for anyone curious about the origins of our most cherished (and sometimes bewildering) passions. This book absolutely belongs on any list of best books by Charles Panati because it exemplifies his signature talent for making the mundane utterly captivating. Much like his previous success, Panati possesses an uncanny ability to connect the dots between seemingly trivial occurrences and broader cultural shifts. He doesn't just present a list of fads; he analyzes their genesis, their trajectory, and their lasting impact, revealing the underlying human psychology and societal forces at play. *Panati's Parade of Fads, Follies, and Manias* is a testament to his engaging prose, his meticulous research, and his genuine delight in uncovering the quirky and unexpected narratives that lie just beneath the surface of everyday life, making it an essential addition to his celebrated body of work.