Stranger Than Fiction: Urban Myths

Contemporary / British English A man fell from a very tall building. Why didn't he die? Why did a dead woman have a frozen chicken under her hat? What fell out of an old man's ear, and why did everybody laugh? And how did a cow fly? Find the answers in these strange stories...
Stranger Than Fiction: Urban Myths – Mysterious and Unbelievable Stories
Introduction
Have you ever heard a story so strange that it seemed impossible? Have you ever wondered if a tale passed from person to person could be true? Stranger Than Fiction: Urban Myths is a book full of such stories. Written by Phil Healey and Rick Glanvill, this book contains twenty-three short stories that are mysterious, funny, and sometimes even scary. The stories are not made up by the authors. Instead, they are urban myths—stories told by people over time. Some of these tales might even sound familiar to you!
What Are Urban Myths?
Urban myths are stories that people tell each other. They are usually about strange or shocking events. These stories are not always true, but they are often believed because they seem possible. Some urban myths are scary, while others are funny or surprising. Many of them have been passed down for years and changed a little with each telling.
Summary of the Book
Stranger Than Fiction: Urban Myths includes four types of stories:
- The Human Condition – Stories about how people think, feel, and act.
- Accidents – Strange accidents that have surprising endings.
- Crime – Stories about criminals and unexpected events.
- Death – Unusual and sometimes scary stories about death.
The book takes place in the modern world, and the characters are ordinary people. The names and locations in the stories could change, but the main events remain the same. This makes the stories feel real and exciting.
Some Unbelievable Stories
Here are a few examples of the strange stories in the book:
- The Man Who Fell – A man fell from a very tall building. Normally, this would mean certain death. But something strange happened, and he survived. How was this possible?
- The Frozen Chicken – A woman was found dead, and under her hat was a frozen chicken. Why was it there? The answer is surprising!
- Something in His Ear – An old man had something fall out of his ear. Everyone around him started laughing. What was it, and how did it get there?
- The Flying Cow – Can cows fly? Normally, no. But in this strange story, a cow ended up in a very unexpected place!
Why Should You Read This Book?
This book is great for people who love mystery and strange stories. It is also perfect for English learners because:
- The language is clear and simple.
- The stories are short and easy to understand.
- The book is exciting and fun to read.
Each story makes the reader think, laugh, or feel surprised. Some of the stories are scary, but they are also very entertaining.
Conclusion
Stranger Than Fiction: Urban Myths is a collection of strange and interesting stories that will make you question what is real and what is not. Whether you love mysteries, funny stories, or just enjoy hearing about unusual events, this book is a great choice. Once you start reading, you will not want to stop!
Have you ever heard a strange urban myth? Share your favorite story with us in the comments!

Rick Glanvill a multiple award-winning writer, author and researcher based in London
Rick Glanvill: The Storyteller of Chelsea FC and London’s Rich History
Introduction
Rick Glanvill is a name synonymous with Chelsea Football Club, but his influence extends far beyond the world of football. As an award-winning writer, author, and researcher, Glanvill has dedicated his career to documenting social history, genealogy, music, and sports. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering passion for storytelling, he has played a crucial role in preserving Chelsea FC’s legacy while also bringing London’s vibrant past to life through his historical works.
A Historian of Chelsea FC
For over three decades, Rick Glanvill has been an integral part of Chelsea Football Club’s media and publications. Since 1993, he has contributed extensively to the club’s official literature, from matchday programs to in-depth historical accounts. His role as Chelsea’s official historian has given him unparalleled access to club archives, allowing him to craft authoritative narratives about the team’s evolution, triumphs, and challenges.
Glanvill's work is essential for both seasoned fans and new supporters who wish to understand the club's deep-rooted traditions. His ability to intertwine historical facts with engaging storytelling makes his books and articles not only informative but also captivating. He has written official biographies of club legends and has worked closely with Chelsea FC to document its history in an accurate and compelling manner.
Chelsea – The Complete Record
One of Rick Glanvill’s most significant contributions to football literature is Chelsea – The Complete Record. Published in 2015, this book is a comprehensive statistical and narrative account of every Chelsea season from 1905 to 2015. Co-authored with Chelsea’s official statistician, Paul Dutton, the book serves as an invaluable resource for football historians and fans alike.
The depth of research in Chelsea – The Complete Record is remarkable, providing insights into the club’s key moments, legendary players, and unforgettable matches. Whether detailing Chelsea’s early years or analyzing modern-day triumphs, the book cements Glanvill’s status as a leading football historian. His dedication to accuracy and storytelling ensures that Chelsea’s history remains preserved for generations to come.
Beyond Football: A Passion for Social History
While Glanvill is best known for his contributions to football history, his expertise extends to broader historical themes. His research into social history and genealogy showcases his ability to bring the past to life with vivid detail and meticulous scholarship.
Through his website, The Cheapside Standard, Glanvill shares his deep knowledge of London’s history, offering readers intriguing insights into the city’s past. His work as an official Clerkenwell and Islington Guide further reflects his passion for unearthing hidden stories within the fabric of London’s streets. From tales of historic marketplaces to the evolution of working-class communities, Glanvill’s storytelling enriches our understanding of the city’s cultural heritage.
A Writer of Diverse Interests
In addition to football and social history, Rick Glanvill has explored topics as varied as music and genealogy. His ability to switch between different subject matters demonstrates his versatility as a writer. Whether chronicling the history of a football club or tracing family lineages, his work is characterized by thorough research and engaging narratives.
Glanvill’s approach to writing is both accessible and intellectually stimulating. He has a unique talent for making historical research relatable to modern audiences, ensuring that his work resonates with a wide range of readers.
Recognition and Legacy
Rick Glanvill’s contributions to literature and history have earned him multiple awards and widespread recognition. His dedication to preserving Chelsea FC’s legacy has made him an essential figure in the club’s history, while his work in social history continues to educate and inspire readers interested in London’s past.
As a writer, Glanvill’s influence is undeniable. His ability to capture the essence of a moment—whether on the football pitch or in a historical setting—demonstrates his mastery of storytelling. His work ensures that important historical narratives, both sporting and social, are not forgotten but celebrated and passed down through generations.
Conclusion
Rick Glanvill’s career is a testament to the power of history and storytelling. His dedication to chronicling Chelsea FC’s journey, combined with his passion for social history, has established him as a leading figure in both sports and historical literature. Whether you are a football enthusiast, a lover of London’s past, or simply someone who appreciates well-researched narratives, Glanvill’s work offers a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. His legacy as a historian and writer will continue to shape the way we understand and appreciate history for years to come.
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