What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedHorrible Histories
Terry Deary · Book · 1993
If you loved Horrible Histories, start with Horrible Histories (Terry Deary, 2009) — a series from the same story. Below: 3 films, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Horrible Histories across media.
If you loved Horrible Histories, you likely enjoy how irreverent storytelling turns the dry, dusty past into a riotous, unforgettable experience.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Horrible Histories
Terry Deary · Series · 2009
Films on the same thread
History of the World: Part I
Mel Brooks · Film · 1981
Explores: Historical Spoof, Anachronism, Slapstick.
Much like Horrible Histories, this film treats historical eras as targets for mockery, using a blend of slapstick and satire to prove that the past is inherently ridiculous.
There's Something About Mary
Peter Farrelly · Film · 1998
Explores: Unrequited Love, Stalking, Awkward Romance.
Fans of the gross-out humor found in Horrible Histories will appreciate how this comedy leans into the absurd and the messy to find laughs in the most awkward situations.
Life of Brian
Terry Jones · Film · 1979
Shares a thread with Horrible Histories: Satire.
This film shares the satirical DNA of Horrible Histories, subverting historical expectations with dark, biting wit that makes the serious business of the past feel hilariously chaotic.
Series on the same thread
Are You Afraid of the Dark?
D.J. MacHale · Series · 1992
Explores: Campfire Stories, Ghost Stories, Friendship.
If you enjoyed the spooky, campfire-style delivery of Horrible Histories, this anthology series captures that same sense of wonder and dark storytelling designed for younger, curious minds.
I, Claudius
Martin Lisemore · Series · 1976
Explores: Power Struggles, Political Intrigue, Corruption.
While more dramatic, this series mirrors the historical focus of Horrible Histories by highlighting the corruption and power struggles that defined the lives of ancient Roman emperors.
Midsomer Murders
Anthony Horowitz · Series · 1997
Explores: Small Town Secrets, Investigation, Rural Crime.
Like Horrible Histories, this series celebrates the quirks of British life, finding dark humor and mystery within the rigid structures and secrets of a seemingly peaceful community.
Blackadder
Richard Curtis · Series · 1983
Explores: Cynicism, Social satire, Historical Parody.
This series is the perfect companion to Horrible Histories, utilizing cynical wit and historical parody to showcase the sheer incompetence of figures throughout the British timeline.
Podcasts on the same thread
Dark History
Audioboom Studios · Podcast · 2026
Explores: untold narratives, institutional corruption, societal taboos.
This podcast echoes the mission of Horrible Histories by unearthing the dark, untold narratives of the past, proving that history is far more engaging than traditional textbooks suggest.
Dan Carlin's Hardcore History
Dan Carlin · Podcast · 2026
Explores: civilizational collapse, human nature, moral ambiguity.
Just as Horrible Histories strips away the polish of the past, this podcast uses an unorthodox, narrative approach to examine the moral ambiguity and consequences of historical events.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Horrible Histories based on true events?
Yes, Horrible Histories is based on thrilling true stories. Terry Deary, the author of the original 1993 book series, writes stories that are historically accurate, simple, and compelling, ensuring that readers and viewers receive factual information presented in a hilarious and engaging way.
How many copies of Horrible Histories have been sold?
The Horrible Histories book series, written by Terry Deary, has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide since the first book was published in 1993. This success led to the creation of the popular 2009 television show and a feature film.
Is the Horrible Histories TV show related to the books?
Yes, the 2009 Horrible Histories television show is an adaptation of the original book series written by Terry Deary. The show maintains the spirit of the books, which are known for presenting historical facts in a hilarious and compelling format for audiences.
What kind of stories are included in Horrible Histories?
Horrible Histories features collections of tales based on thrilling true stories from history. For example, the author Terry Deary has released collections such as Roman tales, which bundle four books into one volume to provide a comprehensive and humorous look at specific historical periods.