"Seriously Curious: The Facts and Figures that Turn Our World Upside Down brings together the very best explainers and charts, written and created by top journalists to help us understand such brain-bending conundrums as why Swedes overpay their taxes, why America still allows child marriage, and what the link is between avocados and crime. Subjects both topical and timeless, profound and peculiar, are explained with The Economist's trademark wit and verve"-- Publisher's description.

Includes index. Originally published in 2018 by Profile Books Ltd. in Great Britain.

Introduction: the case for being seriously curious -- Seriously curious: unexpected explanations to stretch your mind -- Globally curious: peculiar proclivities from around the world -- Sexual selection: love, sex and marriage -- Also on the menu: oddities of food and drink -- By the numbers: economical, with the truth -- Department of white coats: science, health and the environment -- Geek speak: getting technical -- Game theory: sport and leisure -- Speaking my language: words and wisdom -- Seasonal selection: Festivals and holidays demystified.