This book reminds me a lot of Daniel Defoe's A Diary of the Plague Year.  Based on fact with actual documentation and research but written with a combination of stories, myths and legends.  This gives it a very readable and atmospheric tone, this works really well as I can image this could have turned out dry and factual similar to Daniel Defoe's The Storm.  Instead of a learning experience where you can remember facts and figures you experience the author and subjects deep historical connection to grave yards, the respect and reverence for them and our dead.  Beautifully written and captivating.