From Confederation in 1867 until the abolition of the death penalty in 1976, 704 people were hanged in Canada. The book examines how trial, conviction, and punishment operated then, and the relevance of capital punishment today. It profiles notable individuals: victims, murderers, judges, jurors, the wrongfully convicted ? and the hangman. Fascinating... Drop Dead shines a light on a dark history. Yet, thanks to Poplak's ability as a storyteller, as well as the inclusion of images and a well-curated bibliography, her book is, dare I say, an enjoyable read.