The American Way of Death Revisited
320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
1998
Adult
18+ years
In The American Way of Death Revisited, Jessica Mitford critiques the funeral industry, exposing how some funeral directors exploit the grief of bereaved families to inflate funeral costs. Originally published in 1963 and revised before Mitford's death in 1996, the book details the exorbitant prices of funeral services and the manipulative tactics used by national funeral conglomerates to maximize profits, suggesting the need for more affordable and respectful funeral options. Discussions of death and loss appear frequently.
Informative
Dark
Unnerving
Challenging
Contemplative
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Jessica Mitford's The American Way of Death Revisited provides a scathing critique of the funeral industry, revealing exploitative practices and hidden costs. Reviewers praised Mitford's sharp wit and thorough research, although some found the tone somewhat cynical. The book remains a powerful call for transparency and reform in funeral services.
Readers who relish investigative journalism and revelatory exposés akin to Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring or Eric Schlosser’s Fast Food Nation will find The American Way of Death Revisited insightful. Mitford's critical dive into the funeral industry attracts those curious about consumer advocacy and societal critiques.
3,099 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jessica Mitford was known for her investigative journalism and wit, earning her the nickname "Queen of the Muckrakers" due to her focus on exposing societal issues, such as the funeral industry's practices in The American Way of Death Revisited.
The original book, titled The American Way of Death, published in 1963, became a bestseller and was instrumental in sparking changes in American funeral industry regulations; the revised edition, The American Way of Death Revisited, was released posthumously in 1998.
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320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
1998
Adult
18+ years
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