Initially, the book was like a sophisticated collection of accomplishments, but with time more absurd and weird achievements were included in it. In the first month of its release more than 5000 copies were sold and by 1956 the sales had been already counted in millions.

As the book gained media attention and recognition, it was translated to 23 different languages.

In 2003, the sales exceeded 100 millions of copies. The Guiness Book claims that it is the best-selling copyrighted book, but this is not true.

The idea is credited to a manager of a brewing company. He thought that such a book would be an indispensable companion in solving debates and bets that pub visitors always had.