Book excerpt: It is a well-kept secret that people love cemeteries, says author Karen Batignani, and the interest in them is growing rapidly. In this guidebook, she presents 35 of Maine's most beautiful, historic, and interesting coastal cemeteries, each described in a lively and informative way. Descriptions include their locations, as well as information about unusual epitaphs, notable carvings, historically relevant details, folklore, and stories about well-known stonecutters, prominent people, and war veterans. She also delves into a brief history of New England graveyards, changes in headstone styles through time, and how those changes reflect evolving cultural attitudes toward death. She even includes advice on graveyard etiquette and photography tips. This guide will appeal to anyone interested in graveyards, graveyard art and photography, or history -- as well as those who want to discover more beautiful Maine places to visit.