All the Living and the Dead: From Embalmers to Executioners, an Exploration of the People Who Have Made Death Their Life’s Work

Journalist Campbell (The Art of Neil Gaiman) delivers a gripping look at professionals who deal with the end of life and their efforts to give people “dignity in death.” Although more than 55 million people die around the world every year, Campbell points out, the mechanics of disposing of dead bodies remain mysterious. The book’s colorful cast includes Nick Reynolds, son of the mastermind behind the 1963 heist known as the “Great Train Robbery” and the last maker of death masks in the U.K. Campbell also profiles Neal Smither, a “California stoner” turned crime scene cleaner; assists a funeral director in dressing a body; and delves into the history of autopsies and the contributions they’ve made to medical advances. She notes that the practice of donating one’s body to science dates to 1832 and explains how today’s medical students train on virtual autopsy tables. Campbell also attends the Mayo Clinic’s annual Convocation of Thanks for people who donated their bodies for anatomical study and visits a “white-label” company that helps other companies deal with mass fatalities. Though the morbid details won’t be for everyone, Campbell is a sharp and witty observer who successfully conveys her own fascination with the subject. This is a vivid and open-minded look at a taboo topic. (Aug.)