Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers

Author Mary Roach takes a look at the many fates that a person’s corporal remains can meet after their owners depart. It covers medical research of many stripes, burial, cremation, and even mulching. Roach possesses a lively wit, and has a fine time discussing things most people find taboo. Of course, that’s partly the point. Death is something most of us don’t talk about much, but will all experience, along with all its embarrassing odors, sounds and colors. Roach successfully makes what should be a grisly topic a quite enjoyable and educational read.