Alastair Horne’s book Graves of the Great and Famous offers an intriguing perspective on the final resting places of a number of notable figures from throughout history. This picture and info book provides readers with a unique opportunity to learn more about some of the most prominent individuals in history, through exploring their gravesites and memorials. The oldest graves include King Richard; the more recent burials are from just a few years ago.
Throughout the book, Horne’s writing style is both concise and engaging, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the fascinating stories of these remarkable people. Using a combination of historical facts and personal observations, Horne offers a carefully woven tapestry of the individual and their lives.
Interesting facts include:
- The Curies are buried in lead-lined coffins due to their bodies’ radioactivity.
- Dian Fossey is buried in a graveyard in Rwanda, that she established for the gorillas she lived among.
- William Shakespeare died on his birthday- April 23.
- Paul Gauguin is buried in French Polynesia (Hiva Oa) and has a statue of the Tahitian goddess of mourning, Oviri, beside his grave.
- Elizabeth Taylor’s funeral was purposely delayed 15 mins because her will stipulated that she be late for her own funeral.
One of the most interesting facets of the book is Horne’s exploration of the different burial practices and traditions from throughout history and across cultures. Readers will be fascinated to learn about the different ways in which various societies have chosen to remember and honor their beloved leaders and cultural icons throughout the ages.
The book also features beautiful photographs that bring these gravesites and memorials to life, adding depth and dimension to the experiences and stories being told. If you love history or trivia, or are attracted to the haunting beauty of cemeteries old and new, this book’s for you!
****Many thanks to Netgalley and Amber Books Books for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
