Discusses the Egyptian preservation of dead bodies, stories associated with mummies, and mummies from different cultures, including Incan and Sicilian.

Discusses funeral rites practiced in the past in different parts of the world and how through archaeologists we have come to know about them.

Examines the customs and practices related to burial that have existed from ancient times to the present.

"A fascinating and oft-surprising exploration of the history and meaning of funeral rituals"-- "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 customs around death, burial, and remembrance" -- From book jacket....