The wide range of information provided in this book reflects the remarkable diversity of responses people around the world and down through history have had to death, one of the few experiences they all share. Divided into two sections, the material presented here is informative, useful and, sometimes, even entertaining. The first section includes information on such subjects as near-death experiences, famous last words, unusual means of death, religious...

In 45 short essays aimed at a broad audience, the contributors to From the Ashes place the Branch Davidians in historical and comparative perspective with nontraditional religions, analyze the government's handling of the Waco confrontation, assess the media's coverage and public response, and provide an overview of responses from the academic and religious community. Although the contributors represent a wide variety of viewpoints, they are united...