5 hilarious books about history

These books bring history to life while giving you plenty to laugh about.

A History of the World in 100 Limericks by Mick Twister (Pavilion Books)

“There was an old geezer called Caesar...” This is a history book with a difference, bringing together 100 limericks (short, funny poems) about people and events, including Henry VIII, Nelson Mandela, the Boston Tea Party and the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall.

Interview with Cleopatra and Other Famous Rulers by Andy Seed.

Illustrated by Gareth Conway (Welbeck Kids)

Ever wondered what it would be like to meet Cleopatra, Alexander the Great or Boudicca? This new book lets you hear from 10 of the most famous rulers from history. It’s an entertaining, fun and easy way to learn more about some important historical figures.

Horrible Histories:

Gorgeous Georgians by Terry Deary.

Illustrated by Martin Brown (Scholastic)

Head back to the 18th and early 19th centuries with the latest book from Horrible Histories. It brings together foul facts and horrid headlines from the time (they were called Georgians because the king’s name was George).

So You Think You’ve Got It Bad? A Kid’s Life in Prehistoric Times by Chae Strathie. Illustrated by Marisa Morea (Nosy Crow)

What would it be like to live in prehistoric times? Produced with the British Museum, this funny book proves how tough it would have been to be young in the Stone Age, Bronze Age or Iron Age.

Corpse Talk: Ground-Breaking Rebels by Adam and Lisa Murphy

(David Fickling Books)

Corpse Talk “brings the dead famous to life” for a chat-show with people from history. In brilliant cartoon strips, this book introduces some of history’s most important and fascinating rebels (people who disagree with something going on at the time and do something about it). They include Mahatma Gandhi, Frida Kahlo and Toussaint Louverture.