Death: A User's Guide

Everything you always wanted to know about life when you’re six feet under.

Let’s face it, death is one of the most important events in life--and it never hurts to be prepared. Herein you’ll explore such provocative questions as: Is there life after death? Is the Hereafter sexist? And most important: How do you know you’re dead? This eye-opening collection of amusing tidbits, historical facts, and macabre curiosities probes the mysterious state that has stymied scholars and spiritualists since the beginning of time.

Did you know…

* An Australian woman had her husband’s ashes inserted in her breast implants, to keep him close
to her heart (see page 118)

* Heavy drinking combined with excess body fat can result in Spontaneous Human Combustion (see page 191)

* Statistically, you’re more likely to be killed by walking (660–1) than by lightning (55,000–1)
(see page 193)

PLUS Sex and Death * Graves of the Rich and Famous * Body Snatching and Grave Robbing * Ghosts, Ghouls, and the Undead *

And Much More!

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs