British Museum: Secrets of the Dead: Mummies and Other Human Remains from Around the World
What’s inside...
Travel back in time to discover secrets of mummies and other human remains from around the world in this fascinating book, publishing 100 years after the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb. From Ancient Egyptian mummies and European 'bog bodies' to the plaster citizens of Pompeii, painted people of the Pacific Islands and more, this book provides a comprehensive look into the preservation of human history across different cultures and epochs. Additionally, the novel presents the story of an eight-year-old experiencing a Christmas holiday in Edwardian England, highlighting real events and people from that era with humor and nostalgia.
Age
9-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like to live during the times these mummies were created?
Why do you think different cultures around the world practiced mummification?
How do mummies help us understand the history and culture of ancient civilizations?
What feelings do you have when you see or read about mummies and human remains?
What similarities and differences do you notice in the burial practices across various cultures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the daily life and environment of the ancient people discussed in the book. Connect the historical practices to current traditions to give them a broader understanding of cultural evolution. While discussing mummies, be sensitive to your child's reactions and comfort level about human remains. Use visuals from the book to enhance the interactive learning experience and provide context. Share your own thoughts and curiosity about the subject to model enthusiastic learning behavior.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for different cultures
Explanation: The book explores mummification across various cultures, demonstrating the diverse burial traditions and beliefs about the afterlife.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences, fostering open-mindedness in their interactions with diverse groups in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Understanding of historical timelines
Explanation: By detailing the processes and timelines of mummification, the book helps children place historical events in context.
Real-World Application: This understanding aids children in grasping the concept of time and history, enhancing their ability to organize and interpret information in academic settings.
Example Lesson: Scientific inquiry
Explanation: The book delves into the science behind preservation techniques, encouraging a scientific understanding of how and why mummies are preserved.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and ask questions about how things work, promoting a scientific approach to solving problems and satisfying curiosities.
Example Lesson: Empathy for past lives
Explanation: Through descriptions of the lives that these mummies once lived, the book encourages readers to empathize with people from different times and places.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop a deeper understanding of human emotions and experiences, enhancing their emotional intelligence and social skills.