Riddles With Answers

The author of which of these books was buried with wine, pencils and a power saw?

Green Eggs and Ham
Goodnight Moon
Charlotte’s Web
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Fact: Roald Dahl was a prolific writer, producing 19 novels and many of the world’s most beloved children’s books, including The Gremlins, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Upon his passing in 1990, his family arranged a special Viking funeral for him, to honor his Norwegian roots. To stay true to the Viking burial ritual, Dahl was laid to rest with a collection of his favorite possessions to accompany him into the afterlife. These items included his prized snooker cues, bottles of fine burgundy wine, assorted chocolates, HB pencils, and even a circular power saw.

Correct Answer: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Which word was NOT in the original name of IBM?

Recording
Computing
Engineering
Tabulating

Fact: The Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR) was founded in 1911 as a census-recording and data-processing enterprise, developing innovative machines that could rapidly count and organize data in ways unmatched by existing products. These early data-handling systems proved highly popular, driving the company’s expansion beyond its original niche. In 1924, under the leadership of Thomas J. Watson Sr., the company was renamed International Business Machines to reflect its growing international presence and its ambitions to lead the emerging field of business technology.

Correct Answer: Engineering

Which dance style is known for graceful turns and steps?

Salsa
Hip hop
Waltz

Fact: The dance style known for graceful turns and steps is Waltz. It is a smooth and elegant ballroom dance. Waltz is performed with flowing movements and gentle spins. Dancers move gracefully across the floor in a slow rhythm.

Correct Answer: Waltz

What is the typical time signature used in waltz music?

2/4 music rhythm
3/4 music rhythm
4/4 music rhythm

Fact: Waltz music is usually written in a 3/4 time signature. This means there are three beats in each measure. The first beat is strong, and the next two beats are lighter. This rhythm gives the waltz its smooth, flowing dance feel.

Correct Answer: 3/4 music rhythm

Which country is most associated with the origin of the waltz?

Brazil
Austria
Spain

Fact: Austria is the country most associated with the origin of the waltz. The waltz began in Austria in the late 18th century. It became popular in Vienna, especially in royal courts and ballrooms. Vienna is still famous for its traditional waltz music and dance today.

Correct Answer: Austria

What is the name of the gnome in Sweden that protects homes during winter?

A. Nisse
B. Tomte
C. Gryla

Fact: In Swedish folklore, the gnome is referred to as ‘tomte’. Traditionally, tomtes were believed to guard farms and homes, ensuring safety through the winter months.

Correct Answer: Tomte

Which food is traditionally offered to gnomes on Christmas Eve for good luck?

A. Cookies
B. Porridge
C. Berries

Fact: Gnomes, as part of Scandinavian tradition, especially appreciate a warm bowl of porridge on Christmas Eve, which is said to be their favorite reward for kindness.

Correct Answer: Porridge

How have Christmas gnomes changed from their traditional appearance?

A. Dressed in earthy colors
B. Wearing red hats and festive attire
C. With no accessories

Fact: Over time, Christmas gnomes have evolved from their work clothes into vibrant red hats and festive outfits, symbolizing joy and charm during the holiday season.

Correct Answer: Wearing red hats and festive attire

As mentioned in the children’s song “The Farmer in the Dell,” what is a dell, by definition?

Shallow river
Rural farmhouse
Wooded valley
Narrow canyon

Fact: A dell is a geographical term referring to a small, secluded valley, often wooded and gently sloping. Originating in Old English, the word has been used for centuries in poetry, folklore, and pastoral literature to evoke images of tranquil countryside landscapes and rural simplicity. In the traditional children’s song “The Farmer in the Dell,” which dates back to at least the 19th century and was originally a German folk song, the term helps reinforce the song’s rustic setting, emphasizing the peaceful countryside where the farmer lives.

Correct Answer: Wooded valley

What is the only James Bond theme song to reach No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100?

“Goldfinger”
“Nobody Does It Better”
“Live and Let Die”
“A View to a Kill”

Fact: The signature theme songs from James Bond films have long showcased some of the world’s most iconic recording artists, from Shirley Bassey and Carly Simon to Paul McCartney and Madonna. “Nobody Does It Better” by Carly Simon and “Live and Let Die” by Paul McCartney and Wings came close to topping the U.S. Billboard chart, both placing at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was not until 1985 that a Bond theme finally reached No. 1 in the United States, when Duran Duran achieved the milestone with their hit “A View to a Kill,” the theme from the film of the same name starring Roger Moore as James Bond.

Correct Answer: “A View to a Kill”