{"product_id":"9781909979147","title":"Strange but True: A Historical Background to Popular Beliefs and Traditions","description":"Why do we:\u003cp\u003e• Christen ships and sailing vessels or refer to them as 'she'?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Avoid the number thirteen, breaking mirrors or walking under ladders?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Use the phrase having a 'skeleton in the cupboard'?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Dress baby boys in blue, speak of 'true blue' or 'blue-blooded'?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Decorate the Christmas Tree or eat Easter Eggs?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Kiss under the mistletoe or 'trick or treat' on Halloween?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this easy-to-read book - a revised and updated re-publication of her previous book, \u003ci\u003eCurious and Curiouser!\u003c\/i\u003e - author, lecturer and public speaker, Dr. Monica-Maria Stapelberg, shares the results of her many years of research to uncover the historical background behind numerous commonly-held beliefs and traditions. These range from general popular beliefs to the more specific and enlightening traditions of western culture. \u003ci\u003eStrange but True\u003c\/i\u003e also brings to light how many of our day-to-day words, phrases and actions are anchored in past ritual or sacrificial observances, or simply based on fearful superstitious notions. This book is a must read for a curious mind!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Crux Publishing Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47043923706096,"sku":"9781909979147","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9781909979147_p0.jpg?v=1763627164","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9781909979147","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}