Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Review
- Zoe Vilvens
- Feb 8, 2022
- 2 min read
I haven't read too many memoirs in my time, it takes a certain kind of charisma and storytelling that really catches my attention in order for me to buy one. There has to be something about the personality of the writer that pushes you to read on and learn more about their life perspective. Everyone can tell a story about themselves, however it takes a great writer to keep your full attention throughout an entire memoir. Caitlin Doughty is one of those writers.
Although the topic of Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is unique in itself, it is easy to be off put by morbid stories told in the book. Doughty saves the reader from too much distress by keeping a sense of humor that makes you giggle even when you probably shouldn't. I won't say this book is for everyone, but those with a morbid curiosity or those with an open mind when talking about death could really enjoy this book. Stories from her childhood, time working in a crematory, "death school", and many other anecdotes are spread throughout the book. Armed with a BA in medieval history, Doughty walks us through some history of death as well. There is something to be taken away from almost every story she tells.
Overall, this was a great book to read to start out my year. It brought perspective into the funeral industry, laughs, and overall life insight that I hadn't thought about before. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading her other books when I get my hands on them. Overall, I give it a 5/5. I don't want to give any more away about the book, I think you simply must experience it for yourself.
Commentaires