The Greatest Nobodies of History

The Greatest Nobodies of History by Adrian Bliss offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking journey through some of humanity's most pivotal moments, but through the eyes of those who were often overlooked. Bliss, a comedian and TikTok sensation, masterfully combines humour and historical anecdotes to illuminate the lives of history's side characters. From the ferret who modeled for Leonardo da Vinci to the servant attending to King Henry VIII's most mundane needs, and the valiant horse that accompanied Queen Victoria, these "nobodies" are given their long-overdue moment in the limelight.

The book springs from a fantasy that historical side characters pen their own narratives. Bliss uncovers "recently discovered" complaint letters, court transcripts, and memoirs in bottles to weave a tale that is both surreal and enchanting. Prepare to traverse epochs with accounts that range from Ancient Greece to the bemusing frontlines of the Great Emu War, bringing these forgotten figures into glorious focus.

Stephen Fry praises the book as being "all at once funny, touching, dazzlingly informative and fascinating, brilliantly imaginative and altogether wonderful. Capable of switching between divine silliness and genuinely tender sweetness, tragedy and wonder."

History typically favours its heroes, but as Bliss wonderfully points out, these unsung heroes—the ferret, servant, and horse—were instrumental in shaping these celebrated narratives. By providing a voice to these ignored characters, Bliss invites the reader to see history from an entirely new perspective and challenges the narrative that only heroes shape epochs.

Equal parts fascinating and hilarious, The Greatest Nobodies of History is a surreal love letter to life’s forgotten heroes. It features hitherto undocumented accounts that add layers of richness to our understanding of history, making it both unbelievably engaging and educational. This book promises that while all the stories within truly happened, the factual accuracy may be as fanciful as it is factual.