Open Book 5Open Book 5

This engrossing reference book was born from the inspiration of a beer company's managing director; a former track star recommended the people who researched and wrote the book.

First published in 1955 and an instant hit, the English-language version of this annual publication is sold in 70 countries. Another 22 foreign-language editions are published.

An excerpt: "Robert J. Watson of Sudbury, Massachusetts, has been a platelet pheresis donor on a weekly basis at Children's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, since November 1986. He made his 500th platelet donation on June 8, 1999."

Additional Clue: This book, which has a name identical to that of an Oscar-winning actor who blew up the bridge on the river Kwai, is nearing 100 million in total copies sold. The man who devised the idea for the book has the same last name as that of an aquatic rodent.

For a chance to win an information goody, E-mail [email protected] by noon ET Thursday with the title, name of the chap who thought up the idea, and the beer company's most famous icon. Two respondents will be chosen randomly from correct answers.

Jan. 7 quiz: Steal This Book by Abbie Hoffman. Third question: Recommended ways to beat the draft included being a conscientious objector and affirming such unverifiable traits as bed-wetting and dizzy spells. Winners: Brad Phillips and Robert Lee. Robert correctly answered this extra-credit question: The author started a midnight pizza-delivery service while attending Brandeis University.