Book Summary
“Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death” is a unique exploration into the topic of death, with questions posed by children and answered with equal measures of scientific rigor, cultural context, and respectful humor by Caitlin Doughty. The book consists of various questions, ranging from amusing and strange queries like the titular question “Will my cat eat my eyeballs?” to thoughtful contemplations like “Can Grandma have a Viking funeral?”. In her responses, Doughty tactfully navigates the world of death and decomposition, offering scientific insights while carefully considering the potential emotional impact her explanations could have on a younger audience. Despite the seemingly grim topic, Doughty’s humor and the light-hearted presentation make the book far from being a bleak or disturbing read. Instead, it’s an eye-opening, humorous, and ultimately comforting exploration of a subject most people would prefer to ignore, making it accessible and engaging for both young readers and adults.
Author Intro
Caitlin Doughty, Dianne Ruz
Caitlin Doughty is a prominent figure in discussions about death in contemporary society. She’s an American mortician, author, blogger, and YouTube personality who has been challenging the western world’s perception of death and the funeral industry. She’s best known for her progressive, innovative work in the field, advocating for death acceptance and the reform of the Western funeral industry. Doughty’s passion for the subject has been manifested through her career as a licensed funeral director, owning her own non-profit funeral home in Los Angeles, and being a leading voice in the death positive movement. Dianne Ruz, on the other hand, is a dedicated and talented artist who has lent her skills to several children’s books. Their collaboration on “Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death” combines Doughty’s deep and profound knowledge about death with Ruz’s ability to transform ideas into playful and endearing illustrations.
Book Reviews
Death is a universal inevitability, yet it’s often a subject that is tiptoed around, especially with children. Caitlin Doughty, in her uniquely charming and candid style, confronts this taboo head-on in “Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?”. This book is a refreshing change from the usual somber tone associated with the subject. It encourages conversation about death and seeks to alleviate the fear associated with it through education and humor. The book’s unique premise, coupled with Doughty’s wit and expertise, makes it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to better understand and discuss the realities of death.
Caitlin Doughty has long been a beacon of change in how we approach the topic of death, and “Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?” only solidifies this position. The book, filled with a wealth of knowledge, humor, and a profound respect for the dead, offers an illuminating insight into the enigma that is death. The questions are as intriguing as the answers, showcasing not just the curiosity of children but also their ability to handle complex subjects. Doughty’s candidness about death, her effort to demystify it, and her willingness to dive into its often ignored aspects are what make this book truly special.
There is no shortage of books about death, but “Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?” stands apart in its unique approach to the subject matter. Combining the innocence of children’s questions with Doughty’s extensive knowledge and candidness, the book navigates through the uncomfortable topic with grace, humor, and sincerity. It’s a powerful reminder that death, much like life, is a natural process that should be discussed openly rather than shrouded in mystery and fear. This book is a must-read, whether you’re seeking answers to your own questions about death or simply looking for a thoughtful, funny, and enlightening read.
“Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?” is not only an educational foray into the world of death, but it is also a poignant reflection on life and the many questions it leaves in its wake. Doughty’s unique voice as an author is prevalent throughout the text. She remains informative and comforting in her explanations, acknowledging the weight of the subject matter while also lightening the tone with gentle humor and amusing anecdotes from her experience as a mortician. As a fan of Doughty’s work, the book not only met my expectations but also furthered my respect for her ability to discuss the topics of death and decomposition in a way that is insightful, respectful, and surprisingly heartwarming.
