A New York Times and Los Angeles Times Bestseller, From Here to Eternity offers a remarkable look into the diverse practices surrounding death across various cultures. Authored by acclaimed mortician Caitlin Doughty, this book invites readers on a global expedition to discover innovative and respectful ways societies care for their deceased.
Doughty writes with a blend of tenderness and scholarly curiosity, exploring the often-taboo subject of mortality through a lens of fascination. From Zoroastrian sky burials to Bolivian skulls that grant wishes, she unveils a multitude of funerary customs that challenge Western perspectives on death. This account not only highlights the rituals surrounding the dead but also criticizes the prevalent norms of the American funeral industry, particularly the processes of chemical embalming.
One of the standout features of this book is the way it emphasizes the importance of personal connection in honoring the deceased. Doughty encourages readers to reconsider what it means to treat the dead with utmost dignity, presenting traditions that allow mourners to have a hands-on approach in the funeral process.
Visually stunning, the book is exquisitely illustrated by artist Landis Blair, whose artwork brings to life the morbid yet beautiful theme of the book. From Here to Eternity is not merely a documentary of different customs; it is an adventure into the unknown, exploring how people from all walks of life confront the ultimate reality—mortality. With each page, readers are invited to reflect on their own beliefs about death and the unique ways we can honor those who have passed. Doughty's narrative redefines the conversation about grief and offers a compassionate perspective on how we can celebrate life, even in death.
