NONFICTION

Mummies Exposed!

Mummies Exposed! 208p. (Creepy and True: Bk. 1). bibliog. glossary. notes. photos. Abrams. May 2019. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781419731679. POP
COPY ISBN
RedReviewStarGr 5–8–Whether embalmed and wrapped, frozen in ice, preserved in bogs, or dried out in deserts, mummified bodies have been discovered worldwide. This fascinating book explores the variety of ways that mummification can occur and tells the stories of famous and lesser-known mummies, including the Altai Princess, Otzi the Iceman, Incan child mummies, and modern preserved bodies like Vladimir Lenin's and Eva Perón's. Hollihan's thoughtful and engaging text uses first-person accounts to place readers in the shoes of archaeologists solving historical mysteries. Short "Factlet" sections provide important context about the cultures and science being described without overwhelming readers, and Hollihan includes extensive notes and bibliographical material. The author demonstrates how "mummies are our very best link to the past" by providing information about culture, history, and medical phenomena and discusses the ethics of studying and displaying human remains. Hollihan cites Indigenous archaeologist Margaret Bruchac on the need for respect and collaboration between archaeologists and "descent communities" of the human bodies under study.
VERDICT This wide-ranging and well-researched survey of mummies from around the world is a highly recommended purchase for school and public libraries.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?