Weekly Recess

Kim Peek: The Real Rain Man Who Memorized 12,000 Books

Posted on October 20, 2025 (October 4, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Kim Peek wasn’t just a man with an extraordinary memory—he was a megasavant whose astonishing ability to recall the contents of over 12,000 books inspired the iconic character Raymond Babbitt in the film Rain Man. Able to read two pages at once, scanning one with each eye, Peek could memorize an entire book in about an hour. Despite his phenomenal talents, he faced developmental challenges and lived a unique life that changed perceptions about human potential and cognitive diversity. This article explores the remarkable story of Kim Peek, his capabilities, and the legacy he left behind. […]

The Humble Beginnings of Oprah Winfrey: Her First Job in a Grocery Store

Posted on September 19, 2025 (September 14, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Before she became a global media mogul and one of the most influential women in the world, Oprah Winfrey started her career in a modest and relatable way—with a first job at a local grocery store in Nashville, Tennessee. This early work experience shaped her dedication and provided a platform for her journey into broadcasting and eventual superstardom. Dive into Oprah’s inspiring beginnings and discover how her first job helped set the stage for her remarkable success. […]

The Inspiring Story of an 11-Year-Old Girl Who Won 3 Gold Medals Wearing Plasters with a Hand-Drawn Nike Logo

Posted on August 28, 2025 (August 15, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Unable to afford sports shoes, an 11-year-old girl covered her feet with plasters and drew a Nike logo on them. Defying poverty and doubt, she triumphed by winning three gold medals in competition, proving that courage and determination can outshine any obstacle. Discover her heartwarming journey of resilience and victory. […]

Brazilian Man with Rare ‘Upside Down’ Condition Becomes Successful Accountant and Speaker

Posted on July 30, 2025 (July 30, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Born in Brazil with the rare and debilitating condition congenital arthrogryposis, which caused his head to be positioned upside down, this man was once written off by doctors who urged his mother to let him starve. Defying grim predictions, he overcame immense challenges to become a successful accountant and a powerful international motivational speaker, inspiring millions worldwide. […]

From Ocean Trash to Trendy Kicks: Adidas Sells 1 Million Eco-Friendly Shoes Made from Plastic Bottles

Posted on June 18, 2025 (June 16, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Adidas has sold over 1 million eco-friendly shoes made from ocean plastic. Each pair reuses the equivalent of 11 plastic bottles […]

LEGO Braille Bricks: Revolutionizing Braille Learning Through Play and Inclusion

Posted on April 23, 2025 (April 21, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

go Braille Bricks were launched in 2020 to help visually impaired children learn Braille through play. Each brick features the Braille alphabet and is fully compatible with standard Lego sets, allowing sighted peers to join in, fostering inclusivity and collaboration in learning environments. […]

Susanna Salter: The Trailblazing Story of America’s First Female Mayor

Posted on January 22, 2025 (January 21, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

In 1887, Susanna Salter became the first female mayor in the United States, elected in Argonia, Kansas. Her nomination was initially a prank by men opposing women in politics. However, she won by a landslide and served effectively, inspiring the women’s suffrage movement and breaking barriers for women in leadership. […]

Sylvan Goldman: The Visionary Who Revolutionized Shopping with the Cart

Posted on January 19, 2025 by weeklyrecess_admin

The inventor of shopping carts, Sylvan Goldman, had to hire several male and female models to push carts around in his store, demonstrate their utility, and explain their use to other customers, due to not catching on initially. […]

Remembering Alex: The African Grey Parrots Final Message

Posted on August 5, 2024 (August 5, 2024) by weeklyrecess_admin

“You be good, I love you. See you tomorrow” Parrot’s last words to her caretaker.
Alex (1976 – September 6, 2007) was an African Grey Parrot and the subject of a thirty-year (1977–2007) experiment by animal psychologist Irene Pepperberg, initially at the University of Arizona and later at Harvard University and Brandeis University. Pepperberg bought Alex in a regular pet shop when he was about one year old.
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Couple reunites after 60 years apart

Posted on July 27, 2024 (July 24, 2024) by weeklyrecess_admin

A Russian couple were reunited after being separated for 60 years. They were married for 3 days when the husband left to join the Red Army. They were unable to find each other until 60 years later when they randomly visited their hometown on the same day. […]