This book has been on my list since I read And the Birds Rained Down a few years ago, and it just finally got to the top of my list. This was a super interesting book. Eve Joseph compares how different cultures deal with death and dying, especially the Coast Salish, which was really unique. Another interesting technique that is used is etymology. Eve will review the etymology of a word relating to death and dying and by doing so makes the reader see the word, and the process, in a whole new light. The memoir aspect of this book is limited, but I didn't mind that. Joseph perfectly connects her experiences with the death of her brother, mother, and many patients into a frame, within which she weaves the anthropology, language, culture, and practices of death. This book was beautiful and fascinating and is definitely one I'd read again.