This text, now in its ninth edition, is a classic introductory textbook in the field of thanatology, or death studies. Combining perspectives from disciplines like medicine, the humanities, and social sciences, 15 chapters cover topics like suicide, living with life threatening illness, and cultural and historical perspectives on death. Each chapter contains useful tables, illustrations, and photographs and a list of suggested readings for students interested in additional information on a given topic. A companion website is also available with review materials designed to reinforce the most important lessons in each chapter. Students of thanatology or those in fields requiring study of death and dying will find this to be a well-organized comprehensive reference. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)