"A fascinating, if gruesome, look at the history and science of
preserved human remains uncovered in peat bogs in Ireland, England,
the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. Discoveries of bog mummies,
skeletons, and body fragments are described, as are the scientific
methods of investigating them. One chapter also details other items
found in the bogs, while another describes the ecology of the bogs.
Although the dating and causes of death are difficult to ascertain
precisely, various clues enable scientists to assign specific
periods between 4500 b.c. and 1500 a.d. during which the bodies
were deposited in the bogs, and to make likely guesses about the
nature of the deaths. Some of the victims seem to have been
sacrificed, while others show signs of stabbing or hanging. The
text is both engaging and accessible, and the starkly dramatic
photographs are given dignity by the spacious and understated page
design." Horn Book
"For budding archaeologists, or any child interested in exploring
scientific mysteries, James Deem's straightforward text and
superior choice of photographs (many of them taken at the sites
where naturally mummified bog bodies have been found) unfold a
compelling story of Iron Age Man." Parent's Choice (R)
"Deem's carefully researched photo-essay examines the newest
information on these remarkable finds and pieces it with other
known facts to present as clear a picture of [Iron Age] people as
possible under the circumstances. Some are obviously sacrificial
victims; others may be guilty of some crime or act punishable by
death. The bodies themselves, in various stages of preservation and
decay, whisper down the ages in half-heard, almost indecipherable
voices, hinting at religious beliefs and justice codes unknown to
us. A chapter on the bogs themselves gives readers a clear
understanding of this unusual preservation process, and the whole
is lavished with crisp full-color photos (and sepia-toned
historical ones). Obviously the high 'ick' factor here will attract
cursory attention, but [this book] should motivate some intense and
extremely interesting research." School Library Journal,
Starred
"Deem begins with the discovery of a man buried in a peat bog near
Grauballe, Denmark; originally thought to be an accident victim of
the last century, he turned out to be a sacrifice victim from 2,000
years ago. Deem goes on, in an exceptionally well-organized and
riveting text, to describe other early peoples of Europe and how
they were preserved in bogs. He also clearly explains the make-up
of the bogs and their preservation qualities. Most striking here,
however, are the color and black-and-white photographs that appear
on every page.There are excellent photos of artifacts and
scientific procedure, but it is the pictures of the mummies
themselves that mesmerize. Startling in their clarity, it is
impossible not to look at these pictures and wonder about the
people shown in them." Booklist, ALA, Starred Review
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