Written in Bones : How Human Remains Unlock the Secrets of the Dead

by Paul G. Bahn

A way of life; natural deaths; deliberate deaths; burials; mummies and mummification.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, Archaeology, History, Anthropology, Death, Historical

192 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2002

About the author

Paul G. Bahn is a British archaeologist, translator, writer and broadcaster who has published extensively on a range of archaeological topics, with particular attention to prehistoric art. He is a contributing editor to Archaeology magazine.

Reviews

[Mary-jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives us a detailed and extensively researched analysis of 38 cases of forensic archeology.The findings' timeline extents from prehistory to Napoleon's era.Also each case is unique,some skeletons bear signs of assassination,sacrifice,illness,while others reveal that the person died under normal circumstances and was buried with rich artifacts.Moreover,there are some cases of which you surely have never ever heard before!For example,the "bog bodies" and "the children of Llullaillaco".The latter are such well preserved mummies that you actually think they are alive.If you don't intend to read the book,at least search this case!You will be amazed!
Το βιβλίο κυκλοφόρησε στα ελληνικά από τις εκδόσεις Σαβαλλας.Πρόκειται για ένα πολύ πρωτότυπο για τα ελληνικά δεδομένα βιβλίο,μιας και.στην Ελλάδα αγνοούμε ακόμη και την ύπαρξη της ιατροδικαστικης αρχαιολογιας.Μάλιστα,αυτό το βιβλίο μου κίνησε το ενδιαφέρον για την αρχαιλογια,αν και μέχρι πρότινος με ενδιέφερε αποκλειστικά και μόνο η ιστορια.

[Kačaba · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5/5*

Nevím, jestli mám v GR friendech nějakého nadšeného historika, ale pokud jo, tohle by se mu fakt mohlo líbit. :)

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with all good science, after several years some of the information becomes dated. However, I do think the bones (pun intended) of this book are very, very good.
Divided into sections by types of deaths, burials, and methods of preservation, each short chapter gives a brief overview of an archeological corpse or burial site, as well as background of the culture and the region it was found in. The illustrations are a stand out of this volume, with images of remains, excavation sites, grave goods, and burial markers.
I found myself fact-checking a number of chapters as, after 20-odd years since publication, quite a bit of new research has come out from a number of these studies, especially in relation to DNA findings. It's still a great researcher starter, though, and I would recommend checking this out if the field is something that interests you.

[Shelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating smorgasbord of how physical and forensic anthropology helps shed light on ancient civilizations through examination of their remains and funerary practices. Divided into short, digestible articles (although with occasional clunky wording) with interesting pictures (although I actually would have appreciated more), it's easy to flip through the book and select sections of interest – and to be fair, some are more interesting than others. Unfortunately, the big downside is that the book is quite dated at over 10 years old, and therefore science has advanced quite a bit. In some cases, further study has been done specifically on the finds and cases covered in the book. It would be best to read this with your tablet handy so you can Google each example after you're done reading about it, to discover the most recent research and discoveries made.

[CarolAnn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good synopsis of some of the major archeological and anthropological discoveries made over the years.

[Samantha Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in Bones: How Human Remains Unlock the Secrets of the Past by Paul Bahn is an enthralling and meticulously researched exploration into the world of archaeology and the invaluable role that human remains play in uncovering the mysteries of ancient civilizations. As a reader who has long been fascinated by the study of human history through its physical remnants, I found this book to be a fascinating dive into how bones, teeth, and other human remains offer insights far beyond what is often visible at first glance.

Paul Bahn, a renowned archaeologist, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to this subject, guiding the reader through the complex and often surprising ways that bones help reconstruct ancient lives. He presents a collection of case studies from across the globe—some well-known, others obscure—that show the incredible stories bones can tell, from how ancient humans lived, to their health and nutrition, to their social structures and even their emotional experiences.

One of the strengths of Written in Bones is its accessibility. Although the subject matter may sound academic, Bahn writes with clarity and an engaging narrative style, making even the most technical details of archaeology approachable. He explains the science behind skeletal analysis, including techniques like carbon dating and isotopic analysis, without overwhelming the reader with jargon. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or a newcomer to the field, this book will draw you in with its compelling real-world examples and straightforward explanations.

Throughout the book, Bahn demonstrates the remarkable capacity of human remains to reveal intimate and often surprising details about our ancestors. For instance, a single bone can tell stories of disease, injury, diet, and even trauma. The book explores how skeletal evidence has been crucial in rewriting history, showing us how human remains have helped solve mysteries about long-lost civilizations, ancient rituals, and migration patterns. From the bones of Neanderthals to the remains of more recent historical figures, Bahn explores how even the smallest fragments of human bones provide valuable information about our shared past.

The case studies within the book are varied and intriguing. Bahn takes readers to ancient burial sites, including those in Egypt, the Americas, and Europe, and tells the often remarkable stories of what archaeologists have discovered by studying the bones of individuals long gone. For example, he discusses the discovery of the "Ice Maiden" in the frozen Siberian permafrost, whose body and bones told a gripping tale of a warrior woman who lived over 2,000 years ago. In other chapters, Bahn delves into the tragic stories of individuals who died violent deaths, offering a glimpse into the brutal realities of their societies. These case studies bring the past to life in a way that no other medium can.

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of Written in Bones is the way it touches on the ethical considerations of studying human remains. Bahn addresses the complexities of handling human remains with respect and sensitivity, particularly in cases where the bones of indigenous peoples or other marginalized groups have been taken from their burial sites for scientific study. He thoughtfully considers how archaeology has, at times, been complicit in the exploitation of human remains and stresses the importance of ethical research practices.

In addition to the scientific insights, Written in Bones is also a meditation on the human connection to the past. By studying human remains, we are not just uncovering facts about history—we are connecting with those who came before us, understanding their lives and, in many cases, acknowledging their suffering. It’s a humbling experience that, as Bahn rightly suggests, allows us to appreciate the universality of the human condition.

In conclusion, Written in Bones is an engrossing, informative, and thought-provoking book that shines a light on the fascinating world of archaeological science and the powerful stories human remains can tell. Paul Bahn does an excellent job of bringing the field of osteoarchaeology to life, making it both accessible and deeply engaging. This book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in archaeology, history, or the ways we uncover and understand our past.

[Ajith Ashokkumar (LordOfBooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written book with all the details about the hidden history of human remains buried within forgotten soils. This book is an abundant collection for all the Anthropologists/Archaeologists or Paleontology enthusiasts, it carefully explores the minute details of mummies, bones, and ancient human remnants with amazing pictorial representation, giving extraordinary insights into the lives of people who lived a millennium ago. 

The discovered bones and remains of our ancestors tell us about the tough lives they faced in their era. Even kings/queens weren’t an exception back then, often falling victim to conspiracies within their inner circle or succumbing to illnesses. If the remains belong to an ordinary individual, they offer insights into a life marked by numerous hardships. These skeletal remnants vividly depict the struggles they endured throughout their existence.  Reading these pages, we can’t help but realize how privileged and comfortable our lives are compared to the difficult lives our ancestors endured.

“Whether an emperor, cremated in a luxurious box adorned with flowers and gold, or a destitute beggar, who lost and died in the mud, everyone eventually becomes a collection of bare bones” !!!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book collects 36 archaeological discoveries spanning across time and the globe. Each topic is punctuated with several photographs accompanied by informative captions. While a handful of discoveries were familiar, Bahn presented several less-known, fascinating discoveries for the audience. Additionally, there's a helpful index, a bibliography organized by topic so readers could use this as a further reading list, and contributors' credit. I immediately recognized Joyce Tyldesley's credit (she wrote on the Egyptian topics).

Given that there were several contributors, I did notice that the tone and level of expertise required of audience varied at times. For example, in a couple of essays, the terminology used required advanced knowledge of anatomy. This did break the cohesive engagement with the essay occasionally. Also, including a little locator map at the beginning of each essay would have helped establish the site.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provides a quick and concise overview of a multitude of forensic anthropological cases in which the methods used by researchers are described in order to demonstrate what we can learn from the people of the past. Each case is informative, though covered in a very quick and matter-of-fact way. Having studied this type of thing in the past, I wish the author had gone into a bit more detail on each of the cases, and had described some of the scientific testing and research methods more. That being said, for someone that doesn’t have an educational background in a related field, this is a good overview of the topic.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very striking and interesting book that highlights some of the most important cases in anthropology, the impact of anthropology (value of history), and the power of science to discover. This book is a little heavy/ difficult to read at times, as those whose remains are found are often victims of violence or mistreatment (many years ago). Overall an excellent look at anthropology/ forensic anthropology for fans of Kathy Reichs/ Bones TV series. This book was featured as part of an exhibit at the (USA) Natural History Museum in Washington D.C. Spectacular exhibit, great book.

[Corrinne · Rating 1 out of 5]

For nonfiction for YOUNG ADULTS they certainly found a way to insert their own unfounded and colonialist nonsense in there. Needlessly anti-indigenous and ableist. Baseless speculation about how disabled people were treated in their societies, gross enough that I will not repeat it here. Likens NAGPRA preventing indigenous remains from being molested to creationism's open contempt for the scientific process. Wouldn't recommend this to another adult, let alone its intended audience of 13-16 year olds. More than just outdated language, outdated ideas will beyond its 20 years.

[Jules · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It covered all different kinds of burials and funeral practices from the birth of humankind up until the 1600s. It also covered a lot of less talked about, but no less interesting, cultures. This book is a really good jumping off point and introduction to these cultures' burial cultures.
However, I would recommend looking further into specific cases to learn more information and/or get the last updates, as this book was published 20 years ago.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a series of 44 brief but very interesting articles about skeletons, graves, mass graves, mummies and the various artifacts found with them. It covers discoveries from prehistoric times right up to 1812 with Napoleon's army in Russia.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of some fantastic sites and burials! Wish there could have been a bit more detail, especially more on the bones, but as an overview it was really great, and gives me a good list of sites and burials to look into!

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating look at some human remain discoveries.

[Tina Chandler · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent teaser into the fascinating world of forensics and osteoarchaeology. Covers interesting sites and discoveries all around the world and what can be learned, even today, from there.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive examination of significant archeological finds. Well laid out with loads of clear photographs of the remains.

[Sophie]

Beautiful pictures. Great information detailed in this book.

[Izzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cool information for beginner forensic anthropology folks.

[Mati · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book goes trough the most famous and perhaps the most interesting skeletal and mummified findings. It is divided in to the various sections according the origin of the bodies and cause of their deaths or burial customs. I found it sometimes more speculative then scientistic, but it was clearly written for the show. The show is spectacular and gives nice photographies of the findings and triggers interest of the reader, which leads to go to the deeper research. The ancient crimes are revealed and made nice picture of the tragedy which had to happen to those people. The bombastic burials of mummies of various cultures and their comparison is very catching. I think this book is somehow "must read" for me.

[Bea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book jived well the various books and documentaries that I have enjoyed over the years, and I discovered a few new interesting accounts that I didn't know about (at the moment I'm watching an Australian documentary about the Batavia shipwreck and massacre). I did have a few reservations about the very specific ages given to the remains in several sections, by which I mean the age of the person at the time of death, and I also discovered a few typographical errors. However, the book covered an intriguing range of topics, some which kept my attention more than others, and I learned a little more about history. I wonder how much of this information would be out of date now? I'll have to look for updates through watching more documentaries.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

You don't have to be on your death bed to travel the world!

I learned more about geography reading this book than in taking a vacation or cruise.
Since I didn't know where many of the places where they found these skeletons, burials and mummies, I had to look them up in my geography book.

From the Houtman Abrolhos Islands off of Western Australia to Moravia.

Absolutely fascinating in exploring the world through the deceased from their fascinating stories that their bones and artifacts are able tell us living in our modern age.

What surprised me was how brutal some of our past ancestors were. And then how others are caring and careful in preserving their dead.

[Angie Lisle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a collection of cases that revolve around forensic anthropology. A broad range of burial sites from around the world, and from different time periods, are included. This isn't for the faint of heart - there are graphic photographs illustrating the text.

The book reads like a collection of (nonfiction) short stories - some of the cases are extremely captivating while others are boring and dry. Overall, the text tends to be more interesting than not and the language is simple enough that even non-anthropology majors can understand it.

[Laura Cushing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book of forensic archeology takes you through various finds of import, including Inca Mummies, Bog People, and Otzi the Iceman. Great pictures, very good explanations of how human remains are used to determine how the individual and their culture lived. The only complaint I have is that in places it gets a little dry and sciencey and loses the otherwise interesting and exciting flow. Great for those who enjoy archeology, anthropology, or forensics - or those who just want to know more about the history of humankind.

[Fiore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed that the book broke down the subjects from learning about the diet of those in the past to matters of murder. Some of the details of the bones lost me but for the most part it was entertaining, especially when it came to addressing mysteries previous generations were confused by.

I do wish that there was further details into the lives and deaths of these ancient people but it does go to show the limitations of our current technology. I hope to seea book like this years down the line where more progress in the field could be seen.

[Kami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book was interesting, but because it covered so many different findings, it lacked substance. Just as you were getting interested in the one skeleton or body or pieces of bones, it would move on to the next find. It also stuck annoyingly to the bare facts; I guess overall, I like a little speculation of what scientists theories are regarding the finds, and this just didn't go that much in depth.

[Jim · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting look a what skeletons can tell archealogists and anthropologists about the times these individuals lived and how they died. Nice pictures that accompanies the text, which makes understanding the material easier.

[Annette McIntyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting overview of the information that can be gained from examining bones of the long buried. Lots of pictures given, and some of the four or five parge articles could have been extended into more detail.

[colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read but still gets across a lot of information.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting subject with some great stories and photos, but the writing could have been better.