This is an exploration of the ever-fascinating processes of mummification, from the South American desert mummies and the famous and elaborate Egyptian pharoahs to the doctors of the 19th century experimenting with embalming techniques, and famous modern mummies, such as Lenin.

A large section of the book covers bodies that have been mummified accidently, such as those remarkably preserved within the cold dry air of the Sicilian tombs, and bodies preserved through natural chemicals in bogs or frozen in mountain glaciers.

Information panels throughout the book lead the reader to further discovery and each chapter offers website links, book lists, places to visit and career information.