Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #150436 in Books
• Published on: 2003-11-04
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 208 pages

Customer Reviews

Digging up the backstories on the Fisher clan
Since "Six Feet Under" is an unusual television series, set primarily in the Fisher & Songs Funeral Home, 2302 West Twenty-fifth Street, Los Angeles, Calif. 90018, it would make sense that what would be labeled the official companion guide to the show is decidedly offbeat as well. "Six Feet Under: Better Living Through Death" does not recount the episodes from the first season, provide biographies of the cast members, or interview the show's creator reviewing mental health issues. As Alan Ball explains in his brief forward, in which he touches on his first encounters with death, this book is a collection of the relics of lives that no longer exist (yes, Ruth says that in an episode). Ball argues that such relics are essential because they are the only means by which we really remember someone, by touching something they once wore, made or wrote. True, these are all fictional relics left behind by fictional characters, but para-social interaction with television characters is hardly a 21st century phenomenon.

Through the book there are quotations on death from the likes of Carlos Castaneda the Tibetan Book of the Dead, as well as quotes from the show. But the prime attractions here are the relics themselves. Correspondence Nathaniel and Ruth when he was serving in Vietnam, a letter from guidance counselor about Nate, David's fan letter to Matt Dillon, and Clare and Russell's IMs. There is Claire and Nathaniel's car contract, an ad for Fisher & Sons, Federico's alumni profile, Lisa's column in Co-op newsletter, Brenda's novel in progress, and Billy's psychiatric release form. You will also find an invitation to the O'Connor-Fisher wedding, a note Ruth wrote to a babysitter, an article about the Chenowith fire, Claire's college application, Nate's Life-Skills Inventory questionnaire and letter from teacher expressing concern, and, as most of you were hoping, the story of "Nathaniel and Isabel" and excerpts from "Charlotte Light and Dark."

If you were expecting lots of input form the show's creator, Alan Ball, then know going in that his sole contribution is Claire's short story (but if he had to pick one thing that is a good choice). Ball and Alan Poul edited the collection so there is a cohesive vision for this madness. There are also lots of photographs of the sets and cast (including the photos Billy asked Claire to take of him), along with other illustrations. The cast has gotten into the spirit of the effort by contributing contributed shots from their personal collections of when they were younger, so you get baby pictures of most of them. Consequently, for fans of the show who are inclined to let Ball get away with this conceit, this is a fascinating look at the backstories of the Fishers and the other characters caught up in their lives. It might be providing depth without true insights, but then such things are left to the mind of the reader, but it is a different way of looking at a different series.

Unique book with cool stuff!
This book perfectly reflects the intelligence and creativity of Six Feet Under, and lends a wonderful glimpse into the lives of its fascinating characters. Detailed and imaginative writing provides an interesting and authentic back-story. Old pictures of the actors add a delightful touch, also contributing to the "realness" of it all. With a gorgeous layout, this gem of a book will make an excellent gift or collectible for anyone who enjoys the show.

Great Book by a Great Writer
This is a truly wonderful book about a truly great tv show, easily one of the greats of all time. What makes this book great is the creepy humor of Gabe Hudson, who wrote the best parts but doesn't take credit here. Readers who like this book and all those different documents from the characters on the show should definitely drop everything to read Gabe Hudson's Dear Mr. President.