Dealings with the Dead, Volume 1 (of 2)

"Dealings with the Dead, Volume 1 (of 2)" by Lucius M. Sargent is a funny and thought-provoking story that uses satire to look at how we deal with death. Told from the point of view of an old-fashioned sexton, the book examines the strange and sometimes silly things people do when someone dies. The story starts with the sexton thinking about how funerals used to be serious and respectful, but now they've become less meaningful. He remembers the old days and how much he admired the previous sexton, Grossman, and the important traditions they followed. Through funny stories and observations, the sexton points out the importance of treating the dead with respect, even as he makes fun of some of the modern ways people handle death. The book blends dark humor with serious ideas, making readers think about the cultural traditions surrounding death and how they've changed.