It's Your Funeral!

June 28, 2021
In this surprisingly fun handbook, humorist Benjamin (Funerals to Die For) instructs readers in both simple and novel ways to prepare for death. She begins with a consideration of what to do with humanly remains, whether that means an environmentally friendly coral reef burial or turning one’s ashes into a vinyl record. Benjamin then considers how one’s obituary, funeral, and legacy are all ripe for personal touches. For example, choosing the music to be played at one’s funeral is a great way to allow one’s individuality to shine. Among the lighthearted instruction and intriguing anecdotes (such as the rise of “rent-a-mourners” in the U.K.) stands the notion that planning one’s own funeral is an act of love to those left behind. As such, readers are prompted to write down specific wishes and thoughts, including instructions for spreading ashes and what to do with digital assets such as email and social media accounts. Though some prompts are silly, such as “My Haunting Game Plan,” the suggestions for making grieving easier for loved ones will be welcome to any reader. This illuminating, brisk guide breathes vibrant life into a topic many would rather avoid.

September 1, 2021

A light but practical guide to planning a funeral (for oneself or a loved one) by humorist Benjamin (Funerals To Die For: The Craziest, Creepiest, and Most Bizarre Funeral Traditions and Practices Ever). The book is rooted in Benjamin's research on funereal practices throughout the ages (including eco-friendly burials, minting cremains into an object like a vinyl record, and hiring mourners to fill out a funeral service), but it's mainly functional. Benjamin has information about the myriad options available for each component of a funeral and offers unintimidating worksheets and templates to help readers plan or pre-plan the event. This useful read contains helpful anecdotes to help readers look at the big picture of funeral planning and take care of details ahead of time. VERDICT Benjamin's humorous tone makes the dark subject matter more palatable; her book pairs well with Caitlin Doughty's Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory. Given the popularity of the "death-positive" movement, this title is recommended for any library's nonfiction collection, especially where "Death Cafe" programming is offered.--Thomas Beheler, Arlington P.L., VA

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