Analyzing the complexity, absurdity, and blessedness of seemingly ordinary people, this debut collection examines the metaphysical assumptions surrounding death. From the end of a relationship to the meaning behind its title, this anthology continually surprises and subverts, utilizing topics such as alien intelligence, reincarnation, imaginary children, and even conversations with Hitler's childhood pet. Engaging and diverse, this compendium offers a fascinating perspective on mortality. "An excellent and highly imaginative first collection of stories by a writer who is not afraid to approach the big subject." — The Independent on Sunday "Space age Beckett." — The Times Literary Supplement "Corrosively funny, wistful, sharp, strange and black as a coffin lid, Rob Shearman's collection is an addictive delight. The stories stay with you with the persistence of a witch's familiar entwining its tail around your throat." —Mark Gatiss, writer and actor, The League of Gentlemen "Shearman must now rank alongside Roald Dahl, Douglas Adams, even Philip K. Dick, as an outstanding and highly original storyteller." —Martin Jarvis, actor, Doctor Who and Titanic Robert Shearman is a writer who has worked in television, radio, and the stage. He wrote an episode for the cult television show, Doctor Who , which was nominated for a Hugo award. He was appointed resident dramatist at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter, the youngest playwright ever recognized by the Arts Council in this way. He has received several international awards for his theatrical work, and his plays have been regularly produced by BBC Radio.