Last Rites

Why do we embalm the deceased? Why are funerals so expensive? Is there a reason coffins are shaped the way they are? When-and why-did we start viewing the deceased? Ceremonies for honoring the departed are crucial parts of our lives, but few people know where our traditional practices come from and what they reveal about our history, culture, and beliefs about death. In 'Last Rites', author Todd Harra takes you on a fascinating exploration of American funeral practices examining where they came from, what they mean, and how they are still evolving.