Mental Floss

LISTS

Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm.

You’re probably familiar with Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, and Rapunzel, but many are unfamiliar with the origins of the popular versions of these stories. Here's what you need to know about brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm and their tales.

Ali Parr


Kay Petre preparing to race.

Since the earliest days of motoring, there have been women determined to compete with men at the highest levels.

Margaret Brecknell


You say you have better ways to call B.S.? Bottlewash!

Chances are you’ve been using the B.S. word a lot lately, and might be looking to change things up. Look no further than this list of 19 delightful old-timey terms.

Angela Tung




My Little Pony—one of Hasbro's most recognizable and beloved toy lines—has been flying off shelves since it debuted in 1983. Here are a few things you might not have known about the toys, the TV shows they starred in, and the Bronies they inspired.

Erin McCarthy






Portrait of Frankenstein author Mary Shelley.

Between writing 'Frankenstein' and carrying around her dead husband's heart, Mary Shelley earned her title as the original goth girl.

Michele Debczak


How well do you know humankind's best friend?

Detox from the world by learning more about the animal that humorist Josh Billings called "the only thing on Earth that loves you more than you love yourself."

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Monuments, statues, houses, cars, and even sneakers have been built out of spite.

Spite causes us to act in ways that might cause us to suffer but somehow still feels so good. Perhaps that's why people have built literal monuments to spite.

mentalfloss .com




Portrait Of Animator Don Bluth, 1980s.

In a career that has spanned more than 60 years, Don Bluth has been a director, animator, production designer, video game designer, illustrator, and teacher with such beloved films as 'The Secret of NIMH' and 'An American Tail' to his credit.

Anastasia Rose Hyden


It's not everywhere that you can walk on a lake—but you can in Alaska.

If snow sports and curling up with a good book and steaming mug of tea are your favorite activities, you might want to consider moving to one of America's chilliest states.

Ellen Gutoskey