In this warm and curiosity-packed conversation, Tricia Friedman sits down with Brian "Uncle John" Boone, longtime contributor to the iconic Uncle John's Know It All Bathroom Reader series—now celebrating its 38th edition. Brian shares why trivia continues to captivate millions, how collaborative writing fuels the series' longevity, and why tiny bits of knowledge can strengthen community, curiosity, and even kindness.

Together, Tricia and Brian explore:

• Why trivia matters in a world overloaded with information

• How curiosity helps us build human connection

• The behind-the-scenes pitching and research process at the Bathroom Readers' Institute

• The multigenerational fandom behind the beloved series

• How educators, parents, and young writers can use trivia to inspire creativity and local storytelling

• Practical tips for idea-keeping, pitching, and overcoming rejection as a writer

This episode is perfect for educators, writers, trivia lovers, librarians, caretakers, and anyone needing a little delight at this busy time of year.

Brian Boone has spent more than two decades helping shape one of the world's most beloved trivia traditions: Uncle John's Bathroom Reader. With millions of copies sold and a fiercely loyal, multigenerational fandom, the "Know It All" series continues to turn everyday moments into delightful discoveries.

In this episode, Brian shares what keeps the series thriving after 38 editions:

• Humans are wired for curiosity. Trivia satisfies our desire to understand the world in quick, accessible ways.

• Trivia builds connection. Readers often share facts with friends, family, and even strangers—strengthening social bonds.

• Collaboration fuels creativity. The series is built by writers of different ages and backgrounds, each bringing unique lenses to history, science, pop culture, and everyday oddities.

• Research is an adventure. From public libraries to vintage magazines to listener letters, the team follows surprising threads that lead to new stories.

• Writing thrives on feedback. Brian offers honest, encouraging insight into pitching, rejection, and finding the right home for your ideas.

Tricia and Brian also discuss how educators can adapt this model for micro-projects in classrooms: school-based trivia books, local history prompts, research sprints, and collaborative student authorship.

If you're looking for a light, meaningful episode at the end of a hectic year, this conversation is a reminder that joyful learning still matters.

Join Tricia for a Futures Literacy conversation on December 12th through The Guardian Project:

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