Non-Fiction For Dummies Trivia Quiz

Answer: A Brief History of Time

If you're interested in this physicist's theories of black holes, origin of the universe, gravity and time, this one is a must-read. In my opinion, Hawking's wit and ability to simplify science for non-scientists is what makes the book so enjoyable.

Answer: The Story of My Life

The 1962 film "The Miracle Worker" was based on this book. Helen's love of language was apparent at an early age and with the help of "Teacher" (Anne Sullivan) she was able to overcome what most of us take for granted. Helen became an advocate for the deaf and blind and traveled with Anne, who interpreted for her.

Answer: The Interpretation of Dreams

Freud presents his theories on dreams as wish fulfillment and manifestations of unconscious desires. Some of what he discusses includes the relationship between dreams and mental illness, the relationship of dreams to waking life, and the somatic sources of dreams.

Answer: Eat, Pray, Love

After her divorce, Gilbert decided to take a year off to travel. She chose Italy, where she spent her days eating and relaxing, India, where she got in touch with her spiritual side, and Bali, where she found love. The book was made into a 2010 film starring Julia Roberts.

Answer: Silent Spring

Published in 1962, the book took Carson four years to write. She spent time gathering information about the effects of pesticide use. She had hundreds of incidents with which to expose the use of chemicals such as DDT and the long-term effects on humans and wildlife. Her book had a powerful effect on the environmental movement.

Answer: The Executioner's Song

Gary Gilmore was 36 years old at the time he was executed in Utah by firing squad. I had just moved to Utah at that time and remember the extensive media coverage of Gilmore's execution. He had committed robbery and murder and chose to be executed. Much of Mailer's information for his book came from interviews with Gilmore's family and friends and those of the victims' families.

Answer: Fast Food Nation

Schlosser, an investigative journalist, covers the beginnings of the fast food industry, the national and global influences of fast food, and the marketing techniques of fast food companies, much of it aimed at children. After reading this book you might reconsider what you put in your mouth the next time you're hungry and in a hurry.

Answer: Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism

Temple Grandin's unique perspective allows readers a glimpse into what it's like to live with autism. She reveals the isolation she felt growing up "different" and the coping strategies she has developed along the way. Animals are her specialty. She has studied animal behavior for decades and has since become an expert on the subject.

In fact, Miss Grandin is a professor of animal sciences at Colorado State University.

Answer: The Gift of Fear

De Becker knows well what it takes to stay safe. He runs his own security firm and has created the MOSAIC Threat Assessment Systems which screens threats to members of Congress, CIA officials, and Supreme Court Judges. With examples of real-life cases, this well-written and informative book should be read by anyone who cares about personal safety.

Answer: The Smartest Guys in the Room

This 400-page book is well-researched and well-written. The authors refrain from pointing fingers and let the facts speak for themselves. Filled with information about the key players and their ultimate fate, this book answers the question of what went wrong and why.