A Beginner's Guide to Immortality: From Alchemy to Avatars

Gr 4–7—The quest for everlasting life has long fascinated humankind, and in this entertaining introduction to immortality, Birmingham takes readers on a lively tour of the many ways people have sought to cheat death throughout history. The author infuses the narrative with examples from world mythology and folklore, popular culture, and science, from The Epic of Gilgamesh to modern-day avatars programmed with a person's memories, feelings, and thoughts. Exploring topics such as the legendary philosopher's stone, cryonics, telomeres in our DNA, and cloning, the book effectively maintains a matter-of-fact tone throughout while simultaneously mixing in eye-opening and engaging facts. Colorful illustrations add an air of quirkiness and complement the text. The focus is squarely upon the how of immortality, with no discussion about humankind's reason for seeking out eternal life.