It's amazing that people once believed these would work.

Carlyn Beccia's book, I Feel Better with a Frog in My Throat: History's Strangest Cures, examines some of the treatments for common ailments that have been used since the dawn of mankind. (Seriously, one of these "cures" dates to caveman days.)

So, whether it's caterpillar fungus for a cough, skunk oil for a cold, an earthworm necklace for sore throats or mummy powder for wounds, Beccia explains the treatment, then reveals whether or not it actually worked. (The answer isn't always a straightforward "yes" or "no" -- some of these cures get a "maybe" because of the value of the placebo effect, such as puppy kisses for wounds or a kiss from mommy for, well, practically anything, or because medical science still hasn't proven or debunked a treatment option, such as a shock for an electric eel for headaches or, believe it or not, a frog down the throat for soreness.)

Each section is succinctly written and amusingly illustrated. Information is presented quickly but thoroughly, telling readers in just a few sentences what a "cure" entailed and what actual benefit (or harm) it offered.

I've been reading this book to my 6-year-old twins at night, and they love guessing if a cure worked or not. When I first added it to their bedtime rotation, I wasn't sure it would hold their attention -- but they actually ask for it, repeatedly.

I love that they love history ... so this book is a win!