Caitlin Doughty rules. She takes a scary topic like death and makes it feel normal. Because it is normal. We’re all gonna die, y’all, and there’s nothing we can do about it.

While this book is influenced by questions from children, I wouldn’t say it’s a great book for kiddos to read unless they’re mature enough to think about decomposing bodies. But hey, maybe that’s the point. Normalize it!

Her answers to these questions (“If I die making a funny face, will it stay like that?” and “can I be buried with my dog?”) are smart and full of science and history. And humor. It’s a delight to read.

From the Best Books of 2019 at Book Riot.