Reader's interested in the nitty gritty of decomposition will be more than gratified with this audiobook selection! Short concise chapters give a strong introduction to this, but keep it friendly for kids. Recommended for readers of all ages who are interested in this topic.

Handling Death

We probably don't think about it often, but our world would be very different if animals and insects who live off the flesh of dead animals didn't exist. This book explores some of those insects and animals. I liked that this children’s book didn't shy away from using big scientific or medical words, like autolysis or vasodilation. These words were explained well in context—a great way to pick up new, difficult vocabulary. The book covers the scavengers and decomposers of the land, sky, and sea. While many of the bigger predators, as well as some small ones, eat the dead directly with little problem, others have to use specialized means to make it happen. The narrator had a pleasant voice, and I imagine this book would be best listened to while the child reads along. That would help with some of the trickier vocabulary as well. If you have a child who is interested in science, animals, or about the concept of “death-eating”—which some Harry Potter fans might have!—he or she may very well find this book and audiobook fascinating.

Death Eaters by Kelly Milner Halls goes into the circle of life and how the cycle works after death.

Halls covers so many aspects of what happens after an animal dies and why it is important. She goes over the various creatures that help decompose bodies. She explains why they are important and what they do. It is fascinating how what the earlier scavengers do influences when and how the later scavengers find the carcass. Some people might find this gross, but I find it absolutely fascinating.

I feel like the print edition of this probably comes with some great pictures showing the various bugs, creatures, and stages of decomposition. A PDF along with the audiobook would be appreciated. I think this would be very helpful especially for a young reader or someone not as familiar with this topic.

The narrator showed enthusiasm in her performance and it was contagious.

I think this is both a fascinating book for children and curious adults alike.

I received an advanced audiobook copy from Lerner Digital through NetGalley. All opinions are 100% my own.

"Death an important part of life"

"What happens to all the dead bodies...? Recycling "

A very detailed read about the decomposition process and all the things and critters that help. Truly educational and a little bit gross, this is a book bound too intrigue middle grade (and above) readers.

I personally have a weak stomach and was happy I listened to this book and wasnt privy to any accompanying photos!



I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

I love that Netgalley had audiobooks now. I think I already read this before though and probably reviewed it then from its physical form. It was a really good book - lots of tidbits short but succinct.