Anyone who ever laughed at the exploits of tall-tale heroes such as Paul Bunyan will instantly recognize the character of the Baron von Munchausen as the king of such heroes. His amazing and daring exploits are rife with hilarity and implausibility. It's part fairytale, part tall tale. The Baron is a figure of pure imagination (loosely based on a real person), a Quixotic figure. Do not confuse this book with a biography or history! Clearly the purpose of the book is to entertain and delight, which it does. The writing displays a superb creativity and imagination, combined with brilliant storytelling of the highest level. Just as you would not read Journey to the West seeking information on beauracratic procedures of ancient China, or Don Quixote de la Mancha seeking knowledge about Spanish funerary customs, you should not read this book looking to learn about the Munchausen family's history or current state. You should read it for the pure thrill of reading a good tale.