What Do We Know About Spontaneous Human Combustion?
What Do We Know About? Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Part of the popular Who HQ nonfiction line, this book investigates the centuries-old mystery of spontaneous human combustion (SHC). Author Steve Korté guides readers through well-documented historical cases, reports from modern forensic science, and the many scientific theories that try to explain why—or whether—people have ever burst into flames without an external ignition source. Illustrated sidebars, photographs, and a final "What Do You Think?" section invite young readers to weigh the evidence themselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which theory about SHC seems most convincing and why?
How do media stories differ from scientific reports?
What other mysteries could benefit from similar investigations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause after each case study to predict explanations together and look up additional reputable sources.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Verify information before accepting it.
Explanation: Readers compare sensational claims to recorded evidence.
Real-World Application: Check sources when seeing shocking headlines online.
Example Lesson: Science evolves with new data.
Explanation: Theories shift from supernatural to wick effect over time.
Real-World Application: Stay open-minded as research advances.
Example Lesson: Historical context matters.
Explanation: Victorian fears influenced beliefs about SHC.
Real-World Application: Consider time and culture when evaluating past events.
Example Lesson: Safety through knowledge.
Explanation: Book closes with practical fire-safety advice.
Real-World Application: Create and practice a family fire-escape plan.