by Melissa Milgrom
Even though STILL LIFE was written for the millions of readers outside of taxidermy, it definitely deserves a place on the bookshelf of every taxidermist. Much of the history of this profession is explained in great detail (many things that were totally new to us). Plus, she gave great coverage of an outsider’s insight into two World Taxidermy Championships® that she attended. One chapter follows the story of Ken Walker’s quest for a Best in World title in re-creations, and another the achievements of Paul Rhymer, John Matthews, and Ken Walker completing the new Behring Hall of Mammals displays at the Smithsonian. All 10 chapters are about taxidermy and taxidermists (and a couple in a way that you would not imagine!). We give this book a thumbs up. It’s a “must read” if you are looking for pure entertainment about taxidermy. 8.3 x 5.8˝ 304pp