Where to start withHorrible Histories
2 versions · originally a book, 1993
Themes: British History, Dark Humor, Gross-out Humor, Satire, History for Kids.
Start with Horrible Histories (Terry Deary, 1993) — the book. Horrible Histories exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1993; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Horrible Histories transforms dry historical records into a riotous, irreverent exploration of humanity's most gruesome, bloody, and absurdly funny moments.
✦ Most fans start here
Horrible Histories (1993)
The original novel
✦ Start hereHorrible Histories
Terry Deary · Book · 1993
The 1993 book Horrible Histories provides the foundational, authoritative source material for the entire franchise, offering readers a compelling, straightforward, and historically accurate deep dive into the past's darkest secrets.
2009 series
Horrible Histories
Terry Deary · Series · 2009
The 2009 TV series adaptation translates the books' macabre humor into an anarchic, fast-paced sketch show, utilizing a cast of comedians to vividly dramatize history's most revolting and hilarious events.
Common questions
What is the relationship between the Horrible Histories book and the TV show?
The Horrible Histories book series began in 1993, written by Terry Deary. These books served as the primary source material for the Horrible Histories television series, which first aired in 2009. The show adapts the historical facts and comedic tone established in the original book series.
Should I read the original Horrible Histories book before watching the 2009 TV show?
You do not need to read the Horrible Histories book before watching the 2009 television series. While the show is based on the source material from the book, each medium functions independently. You can enjoy the historical humor and facts presented in either format without prior knowledge.
Is the Horrible Histories TV show based on the 1993 book?
Yes, the Horrible Histories television series that premiered in 2009 is an adaptation of the Horrible Histories book series that started in 1993. The television production utilizes the content and style of the original books to present historical information in a comedic, accessible format for viewers.
How long has the Horrible Histories franchise been around?
The Horrible Histories franchise began with the release of the first book in 1993. The brand expanded significantly when the television adaptation of Horrible Histories launched in 2009. This spans over 15 years between the original publication and the start of the television series.