Positives The book is widely praised for its engaging and accessible writing style, blending memoir with informative content. Reviewers consistently highlight the author's unique voice, which is described as witty, humorous, candid, and often laugh-out-loud funny, even when discussing a typically somber subject. Many found the book to be highly educational, offering fascinating insights into contemporary mortuary practices, historical death rituals, and diverse cultural approaches to mortality. Readers appreciated how the author challenges societal taboos and misconceptions surrounding death, advocating for greater acceptance and more environmentally conscious funeral alternatives. The book is lauded for being thought-provoking, prompting many to re-evaluate their own perceptions of death and end-of-life choices. Its compassionate yet direct approach, offering an insider's perspective, makes a potentially difficult topic feel approachable and even entertaining.
Negatives Despite its strengths, some readers found the book to have certain drawbacks. A few noted that the humor, while generally appreciated, occasionally felt forced or relied heavily on pop culture references, leading to an immature tone in places. Some reviewers felt the book lacked consistent depth, particularly in its initial sections, describing them as "fluffy" or "featherweight." There was also feedback that the book attempted to cover too many genres – memoir, history, and expose – without fully excelling in any, resulting in an "entry-level" exploration for those already familiar with the topic. Certain personal anecdotes, especially those concerning the author's love life, were perceived by some as irrelevant or not sufficiently developed to justify their inclusion. Additionally, readers expecting a profound exploration of grief and loss sometimes found the book to be more surface-level in these areas.
Conclusion Overall, "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" is considered a compelling and valuable read that successfully brings a much-needed conversation about death into the mainstream. It is highly recommended for those with a curiosity about the death industry, different cultural death practices, or anyone looking to confront their own fears and misconceptions about mortality. Readers who enjoy non-fiction that blends personal experience with educational content, particularly those who appreciate authors like Mary Roach, are likely to find this book both informative and entertaining. While it may not delve deeply into the emotional complexities of grief, it offers a raw, honest, and often humorous look behind the scenes of death care, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the "death positive" movement. It's a book that invites readers to learn, laugh, and ultimately, rethink their relationship with the inevitable.
