books

9 Unique Designs Born in the USSR

A new book highlights under-appreciated products, graphics, and other designs produced under Soviet rule.

The reading room of the British Library, circa 1840

6 X-Rated Library Collections

The New York Public Library once marked its steamiest titles with a triple star.

8 Professional Translators Choose Their Favorite 'Untranslatable' Words

Literary translation is no small feat.

Two Pages of 'Dirty Jokes' Uncovered in Anne Frank's Diary

Anne covered them up herself while in hiding during World War II.

15 Wonderful Things You Might Not Know About L. Frank Baum

In honor of the author's birthday, here are 15 facts about the actual man behind the curtain.

Doctor Who Creator Reveals His One Regret About the Revival’s First Episode

What a difference a word makes.

7 Vintage Portraits of Dogs

The Dog in Photography: 1839-Today is a thorough survey of the history of dog pics.

AI Is Decoding the Vatican Secret Archives, One Pen Stroke at a Time

Most of the massive collection is impossible to search.

17 Secrets of Audiobook Narrators

Lip balm is essential.

Get Lost in This Collection of Pulp Covers of Classic Works of Literature

See George Orwell in a whole new light.

25 Essential Items Every Bar Cart Needs

The proper tools make all the difference when assembling a home bar cart. Here's what Vanessa Dina, author of 'The Art of the Bar Cart: Styling & Recipes' recommends stocking up on.

Carl Van Vechten, Wikimedia // Public Domain

Zora Neale Hurston's Book on the 'Last Slave' Is Being Published—Nearly 90 Years After it Was Written

"Barracoon: The Story of the Last 'Black Cargo'" was originally written in 1931, but no one wanted to publish it—until now.

Fox Is Developing a Choose Your Own Adventure Movie

Audiences will be able to control the plot of the movie with an app.

Reading Aloud to Your Kids Can Promote Good Behavior and Sharpen Their Attention

It's about more than just literacy.

From A Game Of Thrones to War and Peace: These are America's 100 Favorite Books

How many have you read?

Image: London Stereoscopic Company, Getty Images. Background: iStock. Composite: Lucy Quintanilla, Mental Floss

15 Intriguing Facts About George Eliot

George Eliot is best remembered for writing classic books like 'Middlemarch' and 'Silas Marner,' but she is also connected to Lady Gaga in an unexpected way.

The Little Known Airport Bookstore Program That Can Get You Half of What You Spend on Books Back

Inflight entertainment can get a little pricey, but one airport program can save you money on your next hardcover.

Musée du Louvre, Wikimedia Commons // Public Domain

How a Notorious Art Heist Led to the Discovery of 6 Fake Mona Lisas

It was one of the most sensational thefts in modern history.

19 Secrets of Public Librarians

Librarians can help you with everything from finding your next great read to filling out your taxes. But they have a couple of patron pet peeves—and at least one involves bacon.

12 Incredible Facts About Beverly Cleary

Moving, relatable, and frequently hilarious, Beverly Cleary’s stories have been captivating readers of all ages for more than 60 years.

Some of Your Favorite Movies, Books, and Music Are About to Enter the Public Domain

U.S. copyright law will finally allow you to use, remix, and sell books, music, and films made almost a century ago.

Can You Spot All the Stephen King References in This Poster?

Even mega fans may have trouble with this one.

Photo illustrations, Mental Floss. Backgrounds: iStock. Covers: courtesy of the publisher.

25 Amazing Books by Women You Need to Read

Whether you're looking to discover a new author or find an unread title by an old favorite, we've got you covered.

Create Your Favorite Jeff Goldblum With This Dress-Up Magnet Set

Featuring 'The Life Aquatic'/'Jurassic Park' crossover you’ve been dreaming of.