Halls presents an eerily fascinating exploration of mummified children and teens found in South and North America, Europe, and Asia, clearing up the misconception that mummies are Egyptian only. Photographs show clothing, items buried with the mummies, and even final facial expressions while CT scans help tell the stories of how the children lived and died. Some were apparently proud sacrifices to the gods, some the victims of disease or violence, and others mummified naturally, such as those "evicted" from their graves in Mexico after their families failed to pay a death tax. Mexico has an entire museum housing these mummies-a perfect fit with the annual celebration of El Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). Naturally most remains are skeletal, but others appear almost lifelike. An Italian toddler mummy looks as if she will awaken at any minute. Interviews with anthropologists and one paleopathologist reveal the need for patience and expertise in searching for, excavating, and transporting the fragile bodies. The final section provides information on modern mummification methods available to those able to spend a lot of money to preserve themselves or their pets. A list of contact information for museums with mummies on display is supplied. The writing style is plain yet absorbing, presenting scientific and historical information in simple terms. Bonus features such as how a chemist recreated the scent used on an Egyptian death mask make this a fine addition to collections. It is best used as a supplemental report source or browser.