"Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts" by Penny Colman is an incredibly captivating book that explores the rich history, intriguing rituals, and cultural significance surrounding death and burial practices. With meticulous research and attention to detail, Colman provides a comprehensive look into various topics including embalming, different types of coffins, and the elaborate ceremonies associated with burials.
What sets this book apart is the breadth of examples and historical anecdotes that Colman incorporates. She delves into ancient and modern practices from diverse cultures and societies, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of how attitudes towards death have evolved over time.
The author's writing style is both informative and engaging, striking a perfect balance between presenting factual information and sharing personal stories and anecdotes. This approach makes the subject matter relatable and adds a human touch to an otherwise macabre topic. Readers will find themselves captivated by the blend of informative content and entertaining storytelling.
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In addition, "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts" features a variety of illustrations and photographs that bring the burial practices and funerary objects to life. These visual aids are thoughtfully selected and add a visually stimulating dimension to the information being presented.
Overall, Penny Colman's "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts" is a must-read for anyone with an interest in the history of death and burial practices. The extensive research, engaging writing style, and inclusion of visual aids make this book an absorbing and educational exploration of this morbidly fascinating subject. Whether you have a curiosity for the macabre or simply want to delve into the cultural significance of death, this book is sure to enlighten and entertain.
What are readers saying?
Penny Colman’s book, "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts: A History of Burial," has received a mix of reviews, with some readers praising its intriguing and informative exploration of burial practices throughout history, while others have criticized it for lacking depth and being excessively dry.
Many readers appreciate the wealth of historical information presented in "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts." They find the book to be a captivating journey through different cultures and time periods, shedding light on how societies have approached death and burial. The author's thorough research and attention to detail are highly praised as she examines the significance of graves, tombstones, and funeral rituals. Readers also commend Colman for handling what could be grim subject matter with a sense of humor and sensitivity, resulting in an engaging and educational read.
However, some reviewers express disappointment with the book's lack of depth and organization. They find the writing style to be dry and excessively academic, making it difficult to connect with the material. Critics argue that the book would benefit from more analysis and interpretation rather than solely presenting facts. Some readers also feel that the book focuses too heavily on European burial practices, disregarding other regions of the world.
Another point of contention among reviewers is the book's suitability for different age groups. Some readers believe that "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts" is appropriate for young readers since it provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of burial history. However, others believe that the book's content may be too morbid or distressing for younger audiences. This discrepancy highlights the necessity for clearer guidelines regarding the target audience of the book.
In summary, Penny Colman's "Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts" captures the attention of readers interested in a historical exploration of burial practices. Its in-depth research and engaging approach receive much praise. Nevertheless, some readers critique the book's lack of depth and dry writing style, suggesting that it may not be suitable for everyone. The book's focus on European burial practices and its possible unsuitability for certain age groups also draw mixed reactions from reviewers.
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