Historical Heartthrobs: 50 Timeless Crushes— from Cleopatra to Camus

The good thing about falling for a dead person is that they never leave you, as Murphy and Fryd demonstrate in this broad-ranging, tongue-in-cheek guide to the hotties of history. The diverse individuals profiled stand out for their commitment to social causes, artistic and political influence, and sheer audacity. Included are Frida Kahlo (“Even her eyebrows became icons”), Lord Byron (“Style of seduction: Breakin’ hearts”), Harry Houdini, Frederick Douglass, and even a few living people, such as Jane Goodall and Gloria Steinem. The authors candidly explore each individual’s accomplishments (under the heading “Why She/He Matters”), sex lives, reputation, and “Heat Factor” (George Sand’s androgyny, same-sex affairs, and rejection of rigid social mores earn her a “Scandalously hot” rating, while the celibate Nikola Tesla “may have had good looks, but he also only had eyes for science”). Controversial figures (“Hotness doesn’t necessarily equal goodness,” as the introduction quips), such as Nazi sympathizer and filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl (high cheekbones don’t compensate for brushing elbows with Hitler), receive nuanced examination. With engrossing photos, lively quotations, and witty writing, it’s “the complete package”—just like Nellie Bly. Ages 14–up. (Jan.) ■