The Encyclopedia of Preserved People: Pickled, Frozen, and Mummified Corpses from Around the World
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
The Encyclopedia of Preserved People provides a comprehensive exploration of individuals whose bodies have been preserved through history. It covers a wide range of people including Egyptian mummies, bog bodies, Einstein's brain, and the Ice Man, showcasing their significance to historical and cultural studies as well as human biology. The book is enriched with over 30 full-color photographs and provides detailed insights into how preserved bodies can offer unique perspectives on hairstyles, tattoos, diets, and diseases of the past. It serves as an excellent resource with its index and bibliography for anyone interested in discovering the remarkable stories of preserved people.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do different cultures around the world preserve their dead, and why do you think they do it?
What can we learn about a society's beliefs and values by looking at how they treat the deceased?
How do you feel about the methods of preservation discussed in the book?
Can you think of any ways that modern technology could change how we handle preservation in the future?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by discussing the natural human interest in what happens after death, emphasizing the respectful exploration of this topic in the book.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each preservation method, and discuss the emotional and cultural significance behind them.
Link the discussion to a science exploration by looking up how mummification or freezing slows down decomposition.
Use a globe or world map to locate different countries mentioned in the book and discuss how location might influence preservation practices.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for diverse cultures and practices
Explanation: The book explores various methods of preserving bodies practiced by different cultures around the world, demonstrating the uniqueness and significance of each tradition.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences in the world around them, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Understanding of historical timelines and events
Explanation: As the book covers preservation methods from different periods and locations, it provides historical context that helps children connect past events to the present.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take an interest in history and understand the impact of time on human practices and societies.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity about the human body and preservation techniques
Explanation: The book discusses the science behind how bodies are preserved, sparking curiosity about biology and chemistry.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to explore scientific subjects more keenly in their education, possibly inspiring future career interests in fields like archaeology or science.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking about life and death
Explanation: Exploring mummification and preservation leads to discussions about life, death, and the hereafter, allowing children to ponder these profound topics.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop their ability to think critically and discuss sensitive topics in a mature, thoughtful manner.