Naked statues, fat gladiators, and war elephants

Garrett Ryan's book provides concise, entertaining answers to thirty-six frequently asked questions about ancient Greek and Roman societies, from everyday life to famous myths and institutions.

Written for a general audience, it blends scholarly knowledge with lively prose and illustrative anecdotes to demystify classical antiquity.

The chapters are short and focused, making complex topics approachable for readers without specialist training.

Ryan draws on archaeology, ancient texts, and modern scholarship to correct misconceptions and highlight surprising facts.

The book serves as an accessible introduction to classical history, useful for curious readers and fans of historical media alike.