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Creepy and True #1
Mummies Exposed!: Creepy and True
Discover all the mysteries, facts, and discoveries about mummies that are creepy—and true—in Kerrie Logan Hollihan’s illustrated Mummies Exposed! , first in the Creepy and True series.
Just when you think you know everything there is to know about mummies, new facts are unearthed. Mummies Exposed! goes beyond the familiar Egyptian mummies and uncovers the secrets of mummified bodies from around the globe.
New technologies have uncovered fresh facts about old favorites, such as Ötzi the Ice Man found in the Alps, and recent findings have unearthed mummies rarely discussed before, like the Orlovits family of Vác, Hungary, laid to rest in a forgotten church crypt. Among those included are the first example of a Moche warrior priestess found in Peru, bog bodies that were preserved in Irish wetlands, the body of a Buddhist monk hidden within a sculpture, and more.
The Creepy and True series explores strange phenomena, fun facts, and out-of-the-ordinary discoveries. Read them all to uncover the creepy and true histories of mummies, ghosts, skeletons, and more!
The Creepy and True
Mummies Exposed! (#1)
Ghosts Unveiled! (#2)
Bones Unearthed! (#3)
Just when you think you know everything there is to know about mummies, new facts are unearthed. Mummies Exposed! goes beyond the familiar Egyptian mummies and uncovers the secrets of mummified bodies from around the globe.
New technologies have uncovered fresh facts about old favorites, such as Ötzi the Ice Man found in the Alps, and recent findings have unearthed mummies rarely discussed before, like the Orlovits family of Vác, Hungary, laid to rest in a forgotten church crypt. Among those included are the first example of a Moche warrior priestess found in Peru, bog bodies that were preserved in Irish wetlands, the body of a Buddhist monk hidden within a sculpture, and more.
The Creepy and True series explores strange phenomena, fun facts, and out-of-the-ordinary discoveries. Read them all to uncover the creepy and true histories of mummies, ghosts, skeletons, and more!
The Creepy and True
Mummies Exposed! (#1)
Ghosts Unveiled! (#2)
Bones Unearthed! (#3)
208 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2019
9 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 17, 2020
My reading tastes run a bit toward the creepy/mysterious side....so the Creepy & True Series is one I just had to read! I read this first book on mummies and the upcoming second book, Ghosts Unveiled, in one sitting! Both are totally awesome!
This book is detailed and educational, but written on a level that a middle grade student could easily understand. It is dealing with mummified bodies, burial, death and other slightly grisly subjects...but nothing is inappropriate for elementary age children. The book is set up for reading, classroom or instructional use....it has a table of contents, index, glossary and a lengthy notes section for readers who want to delve more into the subject. There are full color photos and illustrations throughout.
Not only does the book give information about how some bodies naturally mummify in dry conditions or acidic conditions like peat bogs, but it also touches on ritualistic mummification. Some famous mummies are featured -- Otzi, The Lady of Cao, Lady Dai and others. I found myself pausing in my reading to look up more on these mummies. So interesting!!
I liked how the author gave in-depth detail on mummies, history, and science at a level that school children could easily understand and enjoy. She does not use complex scientific terms without explaining exactly what the terms mean and she writes in a conversational manner. This book could be a way to get a curious, but reluctant, reader to enjoy a book! There are lots of photos and the text is simple but engaging. This could also be used for supplemental reading in a classroom or just as an educational and entertaining book for a child (or adult -- I loved this book!) to read.
I'm definitely going to read more by this author! The books are targeted to middle grade age students, but definitely enjoyable for adults too!
This book is detailed and educational, but written on a level that a middle grade student could easily understand. It is dealing with mummified bodies, burial, death and other slightly grisly subjects...but nothing is inappropriate for elementary age children. The book is set up for reading, classroom or instructional use....it has a table of contents, index, glossary and a lengthy notes section for readers who want to delve more into the subject. There are full color photos and illustrations throughout.
Not only does the book give information about how some bodies naturally mummify in dry conditions or acidic conditions like peat bogs, but it also touches on ritualistic mummification. Some famous mummies are featured -- Otzi, The Lady of Cao, Lady Dai and others. I found myself pausing in my reading to look up more on these mummies. So interesting!!
I liked how the author gave in-depth detail on mummies, history, and science at a level that school children could easily understand and enjoy. She does not use complex scientific terms without explaining exactly what the terms mean and she writes in a conversational manner. This book could be a way to get a curious, but reluctant, reader to enjoy a book! There are lots of photos and the text is simple but engaging. This could also be used for supplemental reading in a classroom or just as an educational and entertaining book for a child (or adult -- I loved this book!) to read.
I'm definitely going to read more by this author! The books are targeted to middle grade age students, but definitely enjoyable for adults too!
March 28, 2019
Mummies Exposed! is a fascinating look at the subject, at an appropriate level to maintain the interest of an upper-elementary or middle school level. The book covers mummies from all over the world, and is complete with many photographs. As always, digging up the dead - no matter how old - comes with a certain amount of controversy as many cultures and religions find it extremely disrespectful. The author has managed to cover both the science and the cultural implications with a sympathetic viewpoint.
Also included is an extensive bibliography in the back, quite impressive for a book of such small scope. While there are quite a few different mummies covered, the details are somewhat sparse (as suits the age level the book is targeted at). But, the bibliography gives an excellent starting point for further reading for either kids or adults.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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Also included is an extensive bibliography in the back, quite impressive for a book of such small scope. While there are quite a few different mummies covered, the details are somewhat sparse (as suits the age level the book is targeted at). But, the bibliography gives an excellent starting point for further reading for either kids or adults.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Blog | Twitter | Bloglovin | Instagram |
March 27, 2024
In the chapter about bog bodies the author describes how a man, Andy Mould, found two bog bodies at his job. Loading peat onto a conveyor belt he threw a weird clump at his friend. It happened to be part of a head. It was a bog body.
The next year he chucked another weird clump at his friend. It was part of a leg. He discovered another bog body.
All I could think of was the quote from Phineas and Ferb, "Wow, if I had a nickel for every time I was doomed I'd have two nickels - which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice."
The next year he chucked another weird clump at his friend. It was part of a leg. He discovered another bog body.
All I could think of was the quote from Phineas and Ferb, "Wow, if I had a nickel for every time I was doomed I'd have two nickels - which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice."
September 25, 2019
I have always been interested in archaeology. This book gives you a peek into the finding humans from the past which is a big part of archaeology. The subject is highly debated. Many cultures don't like the idea of removing them from where they have been found and displaying them. This book discusses this and I think this is important, it gives this young adult book many views on the ideas of Mummies and the responsibly that comes after the find. Contains good background information, great pictures and some interesting facts about the mummies.
January 23, 2019
Who doesn't like mummies! Hollihan's book is a great introduction to various mummies around the world. Making stops in Egypt, the frozen North, China, and the Andes just to name a few, the book brings the world of the dead to the reader. Even though the book is nonfiction, it is enjoyable and does not read like a textbook which may entice reluctant readers to pick it up. Pictures help bring the world of mummies to the reader. This would make a great addition to any classroom or home library.
Thank you NetGalley and Abrams for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy.
Thank you NetGalley and Abrams for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy.
November 1, 2019
Chapters organized around areas document with slightly gruesome glee mummies found and the secrets (historical detail) found with them. Egyptians are only mentioned as too commonplace; instead we get more esoteric and accidental mummies unearthed in bogs, mountains, and crypts as well as lesser known tombs in Incan peaks, Siberian plains and Chinese heartlands. The dead are treated with respect throughout, and the final chapter looks at the controversy over displaying corpses in museums.
I wish for a little more process (like in the Isaac Newton book from previous year) but it's there in small quantities.
I wish for a little more process (like in the Isaac Newton book from previous year) but it's there in small quantities.
October 27, 2021
This is a first book in a non-fiction series totally appropriate for October. It'll get a lot of interest on your home bookshelf or in a classroom shelf, and the chapters about each mummy -- there are many, from all over the world -- are just long enough to be informative and somewhat narrative, but short enough to hold a reluctant reader's attention.
I honestly never knew there were so many ways mummies can be made -- naturally and man-made. But after reading, I'm of the opinion there's a staggering number of ways a human body can be preserved after death. It's also illustrative of how the technology has changed by leaps and bounds over the decades and how what we can learn from mummies is constantly changing, as well.
There are 10 chapters, ranging from 18 pages to 30. Each features a fairly well-known mummy, such as Egypt's King Tut, of course, as well as Peru's Moche mummy, Otzi the Italian iceman and China's Lady Dai.
It's a fascinating look at a macabre subject and just scientific enough to keep readers engaged.
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
I honestly never knew there were so many ways mummies can be made -- naturally and man-made. But after reading, I'm of the opinion there's a staggering number of ways a human body can be preserved after death. It's also illustrative of how the technology has changed by leaps and bounds over the decades and how what we can learn from mummies is constantly changing, as well.
There are 10 chapters, ranging from 18 pages to 30. Each features a fairly well-known mummy, such as Egypt's King Tut, of course, as well as Peru's Moche mummy, Otzi the Italian iceman and China's Lady Dai.
It's a fascinating look at a macabre subject and just scientific enough to keep readers engaged.
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
October 10, 2019
A fascinating look into mummies throughout the world. Chapters include the story of mummies from the Tarim basin in China, Peruvian mummies from the Moche and Inca cultures, Pazyryk mummies from central Asia, and much more. The discovery and scientific processes through which they yielded their mysteries are also explained. Clear and engaging language is used throughout. The illustrations are predominantly color photographs, which display these preserved humans in all of their morbid glory. The end matter of the book includes notes, a glossary, and a selected bibliography.
While certainly not for the faint of heart, I think that this would appeal to children from ages 10-15. The vocabulary at certain points is difficult, as well as the foreign place names, but this is no impediment for the curious reader. Finally, it explains the science and history of the mummies in a way that is fun and interesting without being overly jargon- and detail-heavy. Overall, this book is highly recommended. (Review by Charles Ross Hughes)
While certainly not for the faint of heart, I think that this would appeal to children from ages 10-15. The vocabulary at certain points is difficult, as well as the foreign place names, but this is no impediment for the curious reader. Finally, it explains the science and history of the mummies in a way that is fun and interesting without being overly jargon- and detail-heavy. Overall, this book is highly recommended. (Review by Charles Ross Hughes)
December 6, 2018
Like many, I've long been fascinated with mummies. If you know and upper elementary or middle school kid who feels the same, they need this book. There are, of course, the requisite Egyptian mummies, but Hollihan explores well beyond that to explore mummies from many different cultures and time periods and different methods of mummification. She explains some of the science involved in discovery, exhumation, and examination of mummies, as well as some of the ethical questions surrounding disturbing and displaying the dead of cultures not our own—how does one balance scientific discovery with respect for others' beliefs—in a way that is accessible, but not dumbed-down. A great introduction for kids wanting to go a little deeper than "Ooooh, cool mummy."
August 29, 2019
This is an extremely well-researched book about a wide variety of mummies from around the world. The writing is playful and often conversational in tone. I did encounter some places where it seemed like there were editorial mistakes, which detracted from the overall reading. (I'm not sure if this is related to the fact that I read the book in digital form.) The topic and photos are probably not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach; I confess to feeling a little quesy at times. I did find the information presented in the book to be fascinating, and it has definitely given me a different perspective on many moments in history, as well as the controversy surrounding the studying of human remains. I would definitely recommend this book to those fascinated by mummies and/or history.
June 27, 2019
Every chapter introduces a new mummy, from the classic linen wrapped Egyptians, to modern embalmings. The author discusses the discovery of the various different mummies, how they were made and whether it was intentional or not, and what researchers went through to try to understand each mummy's life and death. What makes this book outstanding is the author's terrific, conversational tone and voice. I felt like she was just chatting with a class of middle schoolers, with plenty of humor, explaining and sometimes simplifying information but never condescending. She got me totally hooked on yet another book about mummies.
April 29, 2020
While this is not my normal genre for a book, this was extremely interesting to hear about how mummies for,m and different types of mummies around the world. I purchased this book after visiting a mummy exhibit and almost passed on the book but i am quite glad I didn’t.
It was insightful and a very quick and easy read. If you are looking for something different than your normal genre this is a great place to start. Sit back, relax and enjoy the book.
It was insightful and a very quick and easy read. If you are looking for something different than your normal genre this is a great place to start. Sit back, relax and enjoy the book.
June 30, 2019
Mummies Exposed made my former history teacher heart happy. Just gross enough for the middle grade/middlenschool audience. Hits a wide variety cultures and locations and leaves behind some good questions for students to consider.
January 28, 2020
Oddly, I really liked this book. It was crammed with weird examples of people who have been mummified, either accidentally or purposefully. I learned a lot and, for such a creepy subject, I was not at all put off or disgusted.
April 11, 2020
Creepy good- nonfiction book about mummies from all over the world and time lines. There are pictures of the mummies, definitions , and some controversy about handling the dead . Good read for 5th and up who loves Who What Was books and mummies.
September 24, 2022
Hollihan's nonfiction book introduces readers to mummies around the world. Told in a conversational tone, middle-grade readers who love mysterious, creepy, but true stories are sure to be engaged in each chapter.
June 4, 2019
Informational, creepy, and filled with mummies. What more could I ask for?
October 27, 2019
Above average for a nonfiction book for children. Up to date with stunning photos.
December 24, 2019
A fascinating look at mummies with many facts, stories, and pictures. Grades 5+.
December 27, 2019
So great! The pictures are pretty gruesome, so beware! I loved that this book looks at mummies across history and cultures. Very informative, great messages, very readable.
April 24, 2022
Fascinating little book. Well researched too.
March 14, 2025
So many amazing finds. It also has views from various aspects when it comes to showing the dead in displays. Really easy and enjoyable read.
December 18, 2019
Mummies Exposed! shares with readers the discovery of a number of mummies from around the world. For each discovery, the author tells the story of the people involved in finding the mummy or mummies, where they were found, as well as documenting the way the scientists tried to figure out who each mummy used to be and how they came to be where they were. I found each account well-written and beautifully told. The gorgeous design of the book with lots of well-chosen photographs makes it a great book for young adults fascinated with mummies or archaeology in general. Admittedly, the mummies aren't pretty and in some cases are pretty repulsive, but they are also fascinating in what they have told us about different times and places. I especially appreciated the author's efforts to explain that questions are still being asked about each mummy and there may yet be much to discover from each body. She also points out the ethical dilemma inherent in digging up people's remains. Overall, a fascinatingly told and well put-together book about a popular topic.
October 2, 2023
I bought this to give as a gift, ended up reading it myself first, and really really enjoyed it. It was fascinating and written perfectly for a middle grade audience. The writing is engaging with catchy titles like "Arm Tattoo in Inky Blue" and "The Moche Mommy" and such interesting stories conveyed in a very fun way. Highly recommend!
May 1, 2019
Great for kids, and I enjoyed it myself. A lot of useful learning in this book and it is told in an entertaining and interesting way.
May 13, 2019
Mummies Exposed! is the first book in the Creepy and True series by Kerrie Logan Hollihan. It is currently scheduled for release on May 7 2019. Just when you think that you know everything there is to know about mummies, new ones are discovered! Packed with facts but light in tone, this book introduces young readers to the most compelling examples of mummies from all over the world. There are many books about Egyptian mummies, but Mummies Exposed! goes beyond what you expect and uncovers both old favorites and recent discoveries; among them a Moche princess in Peru, the bog people of England and Ireland, and a Buddhist monk discovered within a sculpture! Featuring the most contemporary research, a touch of humor, and full-color illustrations, this exciting read is perfect for curious young minds. The book includes endnotes, bibliography, and index.
Mummies Exposed! is a well written and researched book for the middle grade level reader. I have read a good deal about mummies, and watched some very good documentaries, and I think this book has a good balance of staple information on the subject and things readers might not know. There was some humor included, which I find tends to keep readers that might otherwise get distracted engaged, and I thought the images chosen were fascinating. I thought the endpages were more extensive that I really expected and I appreciated the about of work that went into the bibliography and indexing to help young readers find what they are most interested in and explore the subject matter further.
Mummies Exposed! is a book that does a good job of capturing the interest and imagination of the reader. I think this will be of get interest to a number of readers, and just might inspire more to study the subject in depth.
Mummies Exposed! is a well written and researched book for the middle grade level reader. I have read a good deal about mummies, and watched some very good documentaries, and I think this book has a good balance of staple information on the subject and things readers might not know. There was some humor included, which I find tends to keep readers that might otherwise get distracted engaged, and I thought the images chosen were fascinating. I thought the endpages were more extensive that I really expected and I appreciated the about of work that went into the bibliography and indexing to help young readers find what they are most interested in and explore the subject matter further.
Mummies Exposed! is a book that does a good job of capturing the interest and imagination of the reader. I think this will be of get interest to a number of readers, and just might inspire more to study the subject in depth.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews