Final Thoughts: Eternal Beauty in Stone

Having spent some time in the past years wandering through cemeteries where I had not yet been this book feels like a vast extension of that pursuit, opening eyes wider than they've seen before, like Jupiter after the Hubble telescope. The verses transport me to places where I want to spend more time, hadn't previously. My wish is that every person considering a monument will have a copy of this book, this book of ideas, to ponder before committing to stone, iron, or bronze their personal statement of appreciation for their time here on Earth, or for that of a loved one departed, words placed upon shapes addressed to future recipients unknown. Seems to me a renewed tradition could be afoot here, these images and texts are sacred in that regard. The inscription on page 85 seems appropriate to the contents of this collection, also as a meme for the reader and for all time. John Thomas, you've done very well sir.

The people who will find this book to their liking are many. Those who appreciate beauty, fine photography, history and cemeteries will consider this one of their new favorite books. While I have come to know and appreciate the photographer/author's work via Facebook, I have been stunned to see the incredible work of this man as presented in Final Thoughts. I received my copy only two days ago and have been through the entire book two times and look forward to another visit to the past in the near future. Even though the cemeteries featured are all located in the northeast, any person who enjoys the subject matter will find this book a delight. The physical quality of the book is very good and a bargain for the price. Definitely a book you want in your library.

I have always been fascinated with cemetery art and headstones, and was lucky enough to have a profession that allowed me to see some of the best examples around the world. I own the book "Beautiful Death", and while looking for similar books, discovered "Final Thoughts". I immediately ordered it and was not disappointed. What a beautiful book, filled with pages of gorgeous pictures and prose. This is a book that will be appreciated by anyone who not only loves and recognizes the beauty of cemetery art, by but all who value the beauty of all forms of art and sculpture. Thank you Mr. Grant, for compiling such beautiful photos and putting them together for us in one special book.

The first thing that struck me about this book was the size and the high quality of the paper. John Thomas Grant has done an amazing job of matching pictures with poetry (epitaphs?). I have to agree with the previous review that states this is a "coffee table style book". So true! It's the type of book that should be shared. This book will be read over and over by me, and anyone who cares to look at it. Page 53 is so amazing, and I hope everyone will notice "Will and Grace". If you know someone who appreciates the beauty of the art in cemeteries, this would be a magnificent holiday gift!

After admiring John's photography on Facebook for many months, I finally received my copy of Final Thoughts today. I am amazed at the stunning photographs contained within the pages of this book. John Thomas Grant truly captures the beauty and peacefulness, as well as the sadness of each cemetery he photographs. The epitaphs chosen to accompany each photograph capture the emotion of each shot. If you appreciate the artwork of early New England cemeteries, you must have this book.