Customer Reviews

Concerning Death: A Pratical Guide for the Living

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This book may be dated, but it's usefulness is timeless.

Over the years, whenever I have been faced with a loved one's terminal illness and approaching death, I have turned to Earl Grollman's book for his heartfelt wisdom and his pragmatic, compassionate advice.

While some of this book's advice may seem obvious, and has now so long been so universally accepted that it makes it's inclusion seem unnecessary, (i.e. the moral imperative of a physician/ family to disclose the true seriousness of a diagnosis to the inquiring patient), other parts of of this guide are incredibly grounding, supportive and uplifting. The easily read chapters cover many things: the existential implications of the diagnosis, how to think and talk about death and grief, what things to prepare, how to be compassionate to the needs of dying person, handling decisions and condolences with the grieving family, recognizing religious beliefs, rites and customs, and dealing with children in a sensitive and developmentally appropriate way. All of the material is handled in a succint, reassuring, compassionate question-and-answer format.

There are many wonderful books on death and dying to reach for at that terrible moment when one realizes the loss of a loved one is inevitable. But this I know....if I had to pick just one book to get me through an impending loss, I would choose this one each and every time. This unassuming, slightly dated book has the capacity to comfort, center, and prepare me for the unthinkable road ahead. It is a classic.