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147 Things: My User's Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Bellybuttons
From YouTube superstar, TV presenter, model and fact-obsessive oversharer Jim Chapman comes a hilarious user's guide to the universe. In 147 Things , Jim takes us on a whistle-stop tour of the best bits of everything, from the mind-blowing to the ridiculous. As with his videos, no subject is off-limits and he’ll lift the lid on his life and his relationships, sharing embarrassing stories and things he’s learnt along the way. If you’ve ever felt weirded out by the fact we’re seven billion (mostly) hairless apes spinning around a giant ball of flaming gas, or that we all begin as tiny humans INSIDE our mothers, or that many of us keep slightly-less-dangerous wolves in our homes, then you need this book in your life. Jim wants to inspire you with the sheer unlikelihood of us all being here and equip you to feel just a little less overwhelmed by the small stuff
- GenresNonfictionHumor
288 pages, Hardcover
Published December 1, 2017
15 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 24, 2017
147 Things is a terrible book. To be fair to the author, I don't think I'm the target market, but having thought about it for a little while, I'm not entirely sure which demographic he's targeting. It seems too immature for the typical YA reader (the 'magical wonder of everything' is very primary school level), but the content is too adult in places (lots of references to his penis). I'm familiar with the author, as I watch YouTube videos created by his family, but I can't say I've spent a lot of time viewing his own content, so can't comment on whether this fits with his brand.
The style of writing is quite breathless and stream of consciousness, which is an odd choice given the type of book the author has decided to write. Having read the first third of the book (I tried my very best but I literally couldn't carry on any longer), I can't really remember anything specific that was discussed, apart from a horrible waxing anecdote I'd really like to forget. If Jim Chapman really wanted to pass on his fascinating knowledge and thirst for learning, he should have taken a more direct route - the rambling doesn't help.
I also found it uncomfortable that a book with such a science-led focus has no sources or evidence to back up the claims. It's sort of like listening to a friend at the pub who likes to spout 'fun facts' - you have no idea whether the information he's telling you is true, but you're not bothered enough to challenge him. I think it would be irresponsible to buy this for a child or teenager, as you really can't be sure the content is accurate.
All in all, I'm really glad I stopped reading this book as it was making me miserable. There are lots of very talented writers out there, and I think it's grossly unfair that someone should be gifted a publishing deal just because they make popular videos.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the Publishers and NetGalley.
The style of writing is quite breathless and stream of consciousness, which is an odd choice given the type of book the author has decided to write. Having read the first third of the book (I tried my very best but I literally couldn't carry on any longer), I can't really remember anything specific that was discussed, apart from a horrible waxing anecdote I'd really like to forget. If Jim Chapman really wanted to pass on his fascinating knowledge and thirst for learning, he should have taken a more direct route - the rambling doesn't help.
I also found it uncomfortable that a book with such a science-led focus has no sources or evidence to back up the claims. It's sort of like listening to a friend at the pub who likes to spout 'fun facts' - you have no idea whether the information he's telling you is true, but you're not bothered enough to challenge him. I think it would be irresponsible to buy this for a child or teenager, as you really can't be sure the content is accurate.
All in all, I'm really glad I stopped reading this book as it was making me miserable. There are lots of very talented writers out there, and I think it's grossly unfair that someone should be gifted a publishing deal just because they make popular videos.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the Publishers and NetGalley.
November 3, 2017
Ah, Jim. Regularly appearing on the telly in our house due to my daughter’s love of watching Zoella and Alfie on YouTube, I found myself watching more when Jim was on. I do like Jim. He seems like a thoroughly nice chap, the kind of guy you would quite happily spend an hour chatting to in the pub over a beer. You’d probably end up talking about some of the things in his book.
I really enjoyed 147 Things. They’re a slightly odd, eclectic mix ranging from quantum physics, to life (and death), the universe, lobsters, and why not to try and wax your gentleman’s parts. This was painfully funny. Funny for me, painful for Jim. Poor Jim. He also talks about animals, bodies, fears, myths, urban legends and a whole host of other stuff.
Dotted amongst the science-y bits, Jim also tells us about some more personal things – how he met his wife (another of my daughter’s favourites, and whose cookery book sits on our shelves. Tanya Burr’s cookbook is also really quite good and we’ve had some excellent cakes as a result. I digress), stories about his first love, his family and so on. It’s a bit hard to work out the target audience – his younger YouTube fans (such as my daughter) would love to read about some of the personal stuff, but might balk at some of the more serious science, even with Jim’s down-to-earth, chatty style.
It’s that writing style that I really liked – it does feel a bit like your mate telling you stuff that he’s just found out which you might find interesting. And some, indeed most, of Jim’s 147 Things are genuinely interesting.
Great fun. Not my usual genre (I’ve never read a book by a YouTuber before), but an entertaining way to pass a couple of hours. Jim, if you ever fancy a pint and someone to tell some more things to, give me a shout.
I really enjoyed 147 Things. They’re a slightly odd, eclectic mix ranging from quantum physics, to life (and death), the universe, lobsters, and why not to try and wax your gentleman’s parts. This was painfully funny. Funny for me, painful for Jim. Poor Jim. He also talks about animals, bodies, fears, myths, urban legends and a whole host of other stuff.
Dotted amongst the science-y bits, Jim also tells us about some more personal things – how he met his wife (another of my daughter’s favourites, and whose cookery book sits on our shelves. Tanya Burr’s cookbook is also really quite good and we’ve had some excellent cakes as a result. I digress), stories about his first love, his family and so on. It’s a bit hard to work out the target audience – his younger YouTube fans (such as my daughter) would love to read about some of the personal stuff, but might balk at some of the more serious science, even with Jim’s down-to-earth, chatty style.
It’s that writing style that I really liked – it does feel a bit like your mate telling you stuff that he’s just found out which you might find interesting. And some, indeed most, of Jim’s 147 Things are genuinely interesting.
Great fun. Not my usual genre (I’ve never read a book by a YouTuber before), but an entertaining way to pass a couple of hours. Jim, if you ever fancy a pint and someone to tell some more things to, give me a shout.
December 6, 2017
A book by on of the biggest You Tube sensations is the moment...why not.
I read this book over a number of weeks. As it’s a book of 147 things, I found myself dipping in every couple of days. It’s witty, funny, informative and slightly heartbreaking in places too.
Thank you to NetGalley, Pan Macmillan and the author for the chance to review.
I read this book over a number of weeks. As it’s a book of 147 things, I found myself dipping in every couple of days. It’s witty, funny, informative and slightly heartbreaking in places too.
Thank you to NetGalley, Pan Macmillan and the author for the chance to review.
October 4, 2017
Fun and interesting book! Jim explains all his points well & I now know some random facts!!
Read
October 17, 2017Fantastic read with some thought provoking and some funny moments. Full of facts. Loved it. Written really well
January 5, 2018
This book was a bit hit and miss for me. On the whole, I liked it, but there were also a lot of parts which I found dull to read. Which, I suppose it only to be expected when it's a collection of random facts, some will inevitably be more interesting than others.
The parts I found most enjoyable were the stories which related directly to his life. The stories about sleep-talking and how he met his wife, were to me at least, way more interesting than the random stories thrown into the mix.
I found myself wishing, on more than one occasion, that this was more of a memoir than the book that it was.
Having said all this, however, there were enough enjoyable stories contained in this book, to make it an interesting read and if you love random facts and weird observations, then this will definitely appeal to you.
The parts I found most enjoyable were the stories which related directly to his life. The stories about sleep-talking and how he met his wife, were to me at least, way more interesting than the random stories thrown into the mix.
I found myself wishing, on more than one occasion, that this was more of a memoir than the book that it was.
Having said all this, however, there were enough enjoyable stories contained in this book, to make it an interesting read and if you love random facts and weird observations, then this will definitely appeal to you.
January 5, 2018
Thank you to the publishers for providing an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
This was interesting, in that it would probably help if I was going to a pub quiz and I liked the random mismatch of facts, but it wasn’t interesting enough to hold my attention for long, and I really struggled to read it.
This was interesting, in that it would probably help if I was going to a pub quiz and I liked the random mismatch of facts, but it wasn’t interesting enough to hold my attention for long, and I really struggled to read it.
November 4, 2017
Let's start this by saying I don’t follow any YouTubers, put simply that requires time and I don’t have that commitment level to people; but an educational fact-filled fun book? Yes please! I’ll read that!
The book contains a rollercoaster of topics from jellyfish to death to pouring wax down a sink, the first irritation I had was the book didn’t flow well, I was reading about a really serious topic which I wasn’t eased to in only to shoot back to a light-hearted.
There are some personal stories in the book which I think a fan of the authors would really appreciate, both about himself and his wife Tanya (a fellow YouTuber) for me it felt like a person I had just come across telling me personal matters but that’s fine, nothing wrong with that!
One thing I struggled with was who exactly is this book for? Too much information about VERY personal body parts to be for younger audiences but the information and facts were rather well known to anyone who has had a decent education, I got 27 things in before I fell I’d learnt something.
We were given a fact but within it sometimes an unrelated story, such as in a ‘thing’ about women being born with all their eggs being mixed with a story about some fancying his sister…how are these related? Thankfully the facts became shorter towards the end of the book.
Something I really didn’t understand was what is with all of the asterisks in the book? If it’s important enough to be the book then pop it in the main text if not leave it out otherwise it just leads to confusion and jumping around the book.
I’d recommend the book to people who like the author, his personality and are real fans rather than people who are seeking out facts, while there are some facts in there they are mingled between personal opinions and Jim’s life.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher plus the author for giving me a copy of the book in exchange for this, an honest review.
The book contains a rollercoaster of topics from jellyfish to death to pouring wax down a sink, the first irritation I had was the book didn’t flow well, I was reading about a really serious topic which I wasn’t eased to in only to shoot back to a light-hearted.
There are some personal stories in the book which I think a fan of the authors would really appreciate, both about himself and his wife Tanya (a fellow YouTuber) for me it felt like a person I had just come across telling me personal matters but that’s fine, nothing wrong with that!
One thing I struggled with was who exactly is this book for? Too much information about VERY personal body parts to be for younger audiences but the information and facts were rather well known to anyone who has had a decent education, I got 27 things in before I fell I’d learnt something.
We were given a fact but within it sometimes an unrelated story, such as in a ‘thing’ about women being born with all their eggs being mixed with a story about some fancying his sister…how are these related? Thankfully the facts became shorter towards the end of the book.
Something I really didn’t understand was what is with all of the asterisks in the book? If it’s important enough to be the book then pop it in the main text if not leave it out otherwise it just leads to confusion and jumping around the book.
I’d recommend the book to people who like the author, his personality and are real fans rather than people who are seeking out facts, while there are some facts in there they are mingled between personal opinions and Jim’s life.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher plus the author for giving me a copy of the book in exchange for this, an honest review.
October 21, 2017
147 Things is a surprising five-star read. I will be honest I picked this up as I thought I would finally have something to talk to my husband about. (He’s a fan of the dude). I didn’t expect much, but it blew me away, don’t know if I will be watching the youtube but you never know. If it’s as funny and interesting as this, maybe I will have to check it out. It’s filled with funny anecdotes and facts that had me searching for more. Well done on a great read.
November 14, 2022
This is a weird book. Not in your usual sense of the world; it's just that it.....struggles. It struggles to balance between a memoir and a fun-fact type of nonfiction. I do believe you have to be at least aware of Jim Chapman's existence in order to enjoy this book.
That being said, I did enjoy it immensely. I've been following Jim for years and enjoy his personality which just shines through in this book. The writing's witty and authentic. However, it's also sprinkled with parts that are just....well, almost oversharing. So, for someone who doesn't know who the f the author is, this is gonna be awkward and unnecessary.
This is a really niche book that I don't know if I'll ever recommend it to anybody, but I loved it.
That being said, I did enjoy it immensely. I've been following Jim for years and enjoy his personality which just shines through in this book. The writing's witty and authentic. However, it's also sprinkled with parts that are just....well, almost oversharing. So, for someone who doesn't know who the f the author is, this is gonna be awkward and unnecessary.
This is a really niche book that I don't know if I'll ever recommend it to anybody, but I loved it.
October 16, 2017
A really fun read filled with loads of interesting facts and laugh out loud moments.
November 7, 2017
Some good thought provoking facts with a splash of humour. Unfortunately I found my mind wandering off a little bored in places.
January 30, 2023
I think this book is so self-indulgent, but not for me. For Jim Chapman himself. I read a lot of it, it's ridiculous but it's sometimes witty.
The line "slightly less dangerous wolves" to describe dogs while this man has what he calls an "utterly pathetic Dachshund" is comicial. That line alone was where I had trouble go any further.
This man is over descriptive and so full of himself. He just repeatedly keeps being along the lines of: but not me, I'm not like the other guys, and I'm one of the smartest humans on earth!
Jim, you write bad, you write stupid.
You are not smart, let alone "smartest".
My biggest issue is how the topics bounce around like an ADHD mess. One moment he talks about his Dachshund, then he's on about why do clothes exist, then he's mentioning his dog licking so far up his nose it feels like she gave him the brain poke of a Covid test. Did the editor of this not have enough say to make him lump all his dog talks into one area and his conversations about random wolf breeding and owning "slightly less dangerous wolves" into another?
I've seen/heard a lot of people say they're not the target audience for this book, but I've yet to see someone it's for. It can't be for ADHD/ADD or mentally tortured people. I'm one of those! I have ADHD on a scale that most people say it's a 12/10 and this book was not for me. So it's not for the group of people who can't keep a coherent train of thought.
So who are the chosen ones?
Even if this book is five years old(going on six), it's just not a thing of its time. It had no time. Even as a medicated ADHD teen, I would not have read this book. I definitely won't as an adult. Oh, wait. I did read it already. What a terrible thing to have done to myself.
Jim Chapman's book basically is a form of legal self-harm, it's not as bad as anything E.L James or Stephanie Meyer puts out, because it has a bit of a life to it, but it's still not good. Being a bit better doesn't change it's bottom of the barrel.
0.5 stars. You could have just organized this stuff and it might have made two stars.
The line "slightly less dangerous wolves" to describe dogs while this man has what he calls an "utterly pathetic Dachshund" is comicial. That line alone was where I had trouble go any further.
This man is over descriptive and so full of himself. He just repeatedly keeps being along the lines of: but not me, I'm not like the other guys, and I'm one of the smartest humans on earth!
Jim, you write bad, you write stupid.
You are not smart, let alone "smartest".
My biggest issue is how the topics bounce around like an ADHD mess. One moment he talks about his Dachshund, then he's on about why do clothes exist, then he's mentioning his dog licking so far up his nose it feels like she gave him the brain poke of a Covid test. Did the editor of this not have enough say to make him lump all his dog talks into one area and his conversations about random wolf breeding and owning "slightly less dangerous wolves" into another?
I've seen/heard a lot of people say they're not the target audience for this book, but I've yet to see someone it's for. It can't be for ADHD/ADD or mentally tortured people. I'm one of those! I have ADHD on a scale that most people say it's a 12/10 and this book was not for me. So it's not for the group of people who can't keep a coherent train of thought.
So who are the chosen ones?
Even if this book is five years old(going on six), it's just not a thing of its time. It had no time. Even as a medicated ADHD teen, I would not have read this book. I definitely won't as an adult. Oh, wait. I did read it already. What a terrible thing to have done to myself.
Jim Chapman's book basically is a form of legal self-harm, it's not as bad as anything E.L James or Stephanie Meyer puts out, because it has a bit of a life to it, but it's still not good. Being a bit better doesn't change it's bottom of the barrel.
0.5 stars. You could have just organized this stuff and it might have made two stars.
November 7, 2017
If I inherited anything from my father at all, because I damn sure didn’t get his maths genius gene, then it is a thirst for knowledge. I read a lot, and I acquire a lot of seemingly useless facts, tidbits or information.
You just never know when you’re going to need to know that penguins can jump up to three meters high or that it is illegal to hunt and kill camels in Arizona. Really? How many camels are there in Arizona that they need a law to protect them?
Essentially this is what 147 Things is about. A collection of odd facts connected via witty commentary. I don’t think I am going to get over the whole kangaroo fact, now every time I look at one I will be wondering about what is hidden in that pouch.
To be completely frank the concept of a book of random facts could be considered a wee bit boring after a while, and that exact thought crossed my mind just a few facts or chapters in. Then the book took a slightly different direction and became more personal. Specifically from Thing 19: Some people aren’t bad, they just do bad things, onwards.
The element, which I believe redeems the book, and makes it not only an entertaining read but also a heart-warming one, is the part of himself Chapman puts into the book.
He lets the reader take a close look at his memories and what is in his heart. He lets us in to take a snapshot of what has shaped him as a child and as a young man, and this is what makes this more than just a book about odd and interesting facts.
* I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.*
You just never know when you’re going to need to know that penguins can jump up to three meters high or that it is illegal to hunt and kill camels in Arizona. Really? How many camels are there in Arizona that they need a law to protect them?
Essentially this is what 147 Things is about. A collection of odd facts connected via witty commentary. I don’t think I am going to get over the whole kangaroo fact, now every time I look at one I will be wondering about what is hidden in that pouch.
To be completely frank the concept of a book of random facts could be considered a wee bit boring after a while, and that exact thought crossed my mind just a few facts or chapters in. Then the book took a slightly different direction and became more personal. Specifically from Thing 19: Some people aren’t bad, they just do bad things, onwards.
The element, which I believe redeems the book, and makes it not only an entertaining read but also a heart-warming one, is the part of himself Chapman puts into the book.
He lets the reader take a close look at his memories and what is in his heart. He lets us in to take a snapshot of what has shaped him as a child and as a young man, and this is what makes this more than just a book about odd and interesting facts.
* I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.*
November 21, 2017
I love stuff. I love facts. I love knowing things. It is this reason why 147 Things: My User’s Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Belly Buttons by Jim Chapman is the perfect book for me.
It is a culmination of a curious mind in book form. Jim Chapman has posed very serious life questions and answered them in a serious (and seriously hilarious) way.
I will admit that whilst I was enjoying 147 Things: My User’s Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Belly Buttons it wasn’t until I got to the 123 thing that I was really blown away. Jim Chapman voiced a thought that has plagued me all my life and I realise that we should have some deep and meaningful conversations about life. I don’t think it is going to happen but man we could shoot the poop something wicked. I’m not going to tell you where Jim Chapman and my train of thoughts meet. You are going to have to buy and read his book for that.
147 Things: My User’s Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Belly Buttons by Jim Chapman is available now.
For more information regarding Jim Chapman (@JimChapman) please visit www.jimchapman.co.uk.
For more information regarding Pan Macmillan (@panmacmillan) please visit www.panmacmillan.com.
It is a culmination of a curious mind in book form. Jim Chapman has posed very serious life questions and answered them in a serious (and seriously hilarious) way.
I will admit that whilst I was enjoying 147 Things: My User’s Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Belly Buttons it wasn’t until I got to the 123 thing that I was really blown away. Jim Chapman voiced a thought that has plagued me all my life and I realise that we should have some deep and meaningful conversations about life. I don’t think it is going to happen but man we could shoot the poop something wicked. I’m not going to tell you where Jim Chapman and my train of thoughts meet. You are going to have to buy and read his book for that.
147 Things: My User’s Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Belly Buttons by Jim Chapman is available now.
For more information regarding Jim Chapman (@JimChapman) please visit www.jimchapman.co.uk.
For more information regarding Pan Macmillan (@panmacmillan) please visit www.panmacmillan.com.
April 3, 2018
So many mixed thoughts about this book! When first picked up, I thought this would be 147 things about Jim himself, but it wound up being 147 things Jim knows (which I thought was a good twist). I'm not going to lie, he lost me at first because one of the first topics he started with was about how the sun will explode and kill us all. Nice and light. I personally hate thinking about that stuff and death in general, so it was a bit hard to keep going past page 20. However, in hindsight, I'm thinking that the reason that was done was to show the reader that Jim's not going to lightly talk about anything or shy away from certain subjects. So after that introduction, I found myself flying through this. Jim covers such a vast array of topics, many of which I had no idea I wanted to know more about (but now I do). For example, I can't stop telling people that horses can't throw up now. Thanks Jim. All that being said, if you pick this up and glance through the topics, the chance that there is something in here that will interest you is high. I really enjoyed reading this and sharing random facts with my parents (as I was home for Easter). I think Jim does a great job of helping the reader put the world and its vastness into perspective with this book.
January 29, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. Anything with weird and fascinating facts is right up my street, I love learning about all this and passing on the information to family and friends, even if some of the facts are hilariously stupid, I just can't resist.
Get comfy and prepare to enter Jim's world of knowledge from the start of the universe to strange phobias. Facts and stories on zombies, why Jurassic Park is all lies, life (and death) and belly buttons.
There is something new and interesting to discover within the pages of this book for anyone, regardless of what you're into. Jim shares interesting tidbits and funny stories from his own life too, making it a relatable read, both for existing fans and people who are not yet familiar with him.
YouTuber Jim Chapman has broken the typical YouTuber book mould with this very different and really wonderful non-fiction read.
I highly recommend 147 Things: My User's Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Bellybuttons by Jim Chapman.
Get comfy and prepare to enter Jim's world of knowledge from the start of the universe to strange phobias. Facts and stories on zombies, why Jurassic Park is all lies, life (and death) and belly buttons.
There is something new and interesting to discover within the pages of this book for anyone, regardless of what you're into. Jim shares interesting tidbits and funny stories from his own life too, making it a relatable read, both for existing fans and people who are not yet familiar with him.
YouTuber Jim Chapman has broken the typical YouTuber book mould with this very different and really wonderful non-fiction read.
I highly recommend 147 Things: My User's Guide to the Universe, from Black Holes to Bellybuttons by Jim Chapman.
October 11, 2017
To be honest, I expected a slightly different book. I am aware of Jim Chapman as a YouTuber and will admit I am more likely to find myself watching his vlogs when my daughter is catching up on all her subscriptions 😆 But, I was expecting something a little different. I judged Jim (wrongly) and thought I was going to read 147 absurd facts, so I sat back and expected a really easy, comical read. I didn’t get that, I got scientific facts and historical knowledge with a few anecdotes and jolly facts thrown in to pep me up every so often. I mostly enjoyed this book but did find myself skipping over a lot of facts and sciency stuff.
I need to ask... why does my Year 7 Reading lesson think it is hilarious that their reading teacher/librarian was reading Jim Chapman???? I’ve got a long reservation list for this book already.
I need to ask... why does my Year 7 Reading lesson think it is hilarious that their reading teacher/librarian was reading Jim Chapman???? I’ve got a long reservation list for this book already.
October 22, 2017
I was very intrigued to read Jim’s book, having followed his YouTube channel for a while. I was really impressed with the quality of the writing, and the amount of amusing anecdotes Jim shared. There were facts on a variety of different topics, admittedly some a lot more interesting than others; the great thing here however is that there’ll be something for everyone.
Jim came across so well in this book, as a really approachable and warm person with a lot to give. The only downside of the book (now I’m not prudish and I am nearly 30 so it’s not even an age thing) was that there were a few too many references to Jim’s penis. The stories were all mildly entertaining, but I couldn’t help thinking that it was a little too much ‘TMI’.
All in all though this was an enjoyable read which I whizzed through within a day.
Jim came across so well in this book, as a really approachable and warm person with a lot to give. The only downside of the book (now I’m not prudish and I am nearly 30 so it’s not even an age thing) was that there were a few too many references to Jim’s penis. The stories were all mildly entertaining, but I couldn’t help thinking that it was a little too much ‘TMI’.
All in all though this was an enjoyable read which I whizzed through within a day.
November 7, 2017
Youtuber Jim is well known for his videos he creates or known due to his sisters or wife whom are also big YouTube stars themselves.
In this, his debut book, we know this is one hundred percent Jim from the first word as his questions surrounding many odd things in the world come to light. As well as being a storyteller at times letting us in on a few odd mishaps he's had happen to himself as well as sharing his views on subjects he discusses.
Topics brought up throughout include; Health, the world, life issues, confidence, birth, death, puberty, adolescence and more!
The whole book is backed up with plenty of facts interspersed throughout which are quite amazing to read also and you're sure to learn something from this book of wonders.
A great debut from Jim!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
In this, his debut book, we know this is one hundred percent Jim from the first word as his questions surrounding many odd things in the world come to light. As well as being a storyteller at times letting us in on a few odd mishaps he's had happen to himself as well as sharing his views on subjects he discusses.
Topics brought up throughout include; Health, the world, life issues, confidence, birth, death, puberty, adolescence and more!
The whole book is backed up with plenty of facts interspersed throughout which are quite amazing to read also and you're sure to learn something from this book of wonders.
A great debut from Jim!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
November 25, 2017
This book jam-packed with weird and fascinating facts is very suitable for the colder season because when else will you have all the time in the world to properly hibernate with a read for hours on end and soak up knowledge from the start of the universe to strange phobias? YouTuber Jim Chapman has broken the content-creator mould with this very different and really wonderful non-fiction read that not only provides heaps of interesting tidbits but funny stories from his own life too; making it a relateable read both for existing fans and people who are not yet familiar with him. Besides, with facts and stories on zombies, why Jurassic Park is all lies, life (and death) and belly buttons – there is something new and interesting to discover within the pages of this book for anyone, regardless of what you're into!
October 20, 2017
This isn't a normal fiction book, it's non fiction.
Jim Chapman is a blogger/youtuber, he has created a book with 147 random facts. I did enjoy this book as it's unusual to what I usually read but I found it very interesting to hear all the facts and things that you didn't know.
He also did include some things about his life like a biography but it was related to the fact he was telling you. It felt cosy as it was written as if he was talking to you rather than thinking about it too much and just putting it down on paper. Obviously it was well thought out but you felt as if you were close to him talking to him.
Jim Chapman is a blogger/youtuber, he has created a book with 147 random facts. I did enjoy this book as it's unusual to what I usually read but I found it very interesting to hear all the facts and things that you didn't know.
He also did include some things about his life like a biography but it was related to the fact he was telling you. It felt cosy as it was written as if he was talking to you rather than thinking about it too much and just putting it down on paper. Obviously it was well thought out but you felt as if you were close to him talking to him.
October 22, 2017
Well I think I'm the wrong demographic for this book. The style was too erratic for me and felt as if we were travelling at the speed of light. As a he's a YouTube blogger, there's often a stream of consciousness - and that's how i felt whilst reading this book.
I persisted for as much as I could but couldn't finish. I think it would be a perfect book for my nephew and son but there's too many adult references.
That said, there's lots of funny anecdotes and Jim Chapman is very open and honest about his life.
3* would make a great present
I persisted for as much as I could but couldn't finish. I think it would be a perfect book for my nephew and son but there's too many adult references.
That said, there's lots of funny anecdotes and Jim Chapman is very open and honest about his life.
3* would make a great present
October 12, 2017
I loved this book! Jim is so likeable, funny and relatable. His vulnerability was matched by his humour, and his intelligence by good, engaging writing. There were some 'facts' that I was happy to skip through (because I have a different worldview, or simply wasn't interested), but on the whole, it was a fascinating, funny, interesting read. I feel like I know a lot more useless but wonderful information now.
April 27, 2019
I did enjoy this book and was great that it was written in small chunks so I could pick it up and put it down whenever I wanted. However, a lot of it was very scientific which meant that if I read it too much in one go, my brain would be fried! All in all though, a good book if you want to learn some new facts and hilariously funny in some places.
December 17, 2017
This was a really fun book. I love reading fact books that make you think about different things in life. It was really well set out and funny to read. I love Jim's drive to find out about new things in detail. I hope there's another book from him soon!
January 5, 2018
I enjoyed reading Jim Chapman’s new book. I found it very funny and informative. I probably won’t remember all the random facts but it was fun to learn about them. This book has a mixture of facts and Jim’s life stories.
July 19, 2018
For what this book is, a collection of interesting facts, it's pretty good. I'd never heard of the author, but he incorporates the facts into his personal story well. A good variety of facts too, I kept heading to Google to find out more about them, which is a good sign!
August 17, 2018
A lighthearted, fun and informative book, if you like me enjoy curiosity and sort of strange information. Also it is full of information about Jim himself which is rather funny and intersting if you are a fan of him!
October 24, 2017
Very interesting read and actually learnt some things. Great book for ages 12 - 102! Easy to dip in and out of. Never heard of the author before but now following on twitter.
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