I frequently get asked about what books I recommend about grief. First of all there are SO many quality ones out there these days written by talented authors. Maybe you are a griever looking for a book to help you understand what you’re going through. Maybe you are a friend of a griever and you want to learn more about their experience and how to support them. Lastly, maybe you are a clinician such as a marriage and family therapist, social worker or hospice nurse and you want to gain insight into the grieving experience to better be there for your clients and patients.

Here is my list with short descriptions.

"Good Mourning" by Sally Douglas and Imogen Card. I recommend this for new grievers. It has great visuals and is more digestible to read while you are in the fog of grief. I also recommend this for clinicians because the infograph’s could be good tools for your clients. It is a heartfelt exploration of grief from the perspectives of its authors, the popular podcast hosts of "Good Mourning." The book offers a candid look at the complexities of loss, blending personal anecdotes with thought-provoking reflections. It addresses the often-unspoken struggles of navigating mourning while encouraging readers to embrace their feelings in a healthy way. With a focus on hope and resilience, "Good Mourning" serves as both a comforting guide and a source of inspiration for those facing their own grief journeys. Through its relatable storytelling and practical insights, it aims to foster healing and connection in the midst of loss.
"Conscious Grieving" by Claire Bidwell Smith. I recommend this to new-ish grievers. It offers a compassionate guide for navigating the complicated emotions surrounding loss. The author, a bereavement therapist, emphasizes the importance of embracing grief as a natural and necessary process. Through a blend of personal stories and professional insights, Smith encourages readers to face their pain directly, allowing for healing and growth. The book provides practical tools and exercises to help individuals honor their loved ones while also finding a path toward acceptance and renewed purpose in life.
"A Grace Disguised" is a profound exploration of grief and loss by Jerry Sittser. Because it is raw and honest I recommend this to grievers a few years in. Through his personal journey following the tragic accident that claimed the lives of his mother, wife, and daughter, Sittser delves into the complex emotions associated with mourning. He reflects on the transformative power of sorrow, illustrating how pain can lead to deeper understanding and connection with oneself and others. This contemplative work encourages readers to embrace their grief and discover unexpected grace amid hardship. Sittser’s insights serve as a guiding light for those navigating their own difficult experiences, offering hope and a renewed perspective on life’s challenges.
"A Grief Observed" is a poignant reflection by C.S. Lewis, chronicling his raw and intimate responses to the death of his wife, Joy Davidman and because of his honesty I recommended it to grievers a few years in.. Written in the wake of his profound loss, the book captures the overwhelming emotions and struggles that accompany grief, including sorrow, anger, and doubt. Through a series of deeply personal thoughts and meditations, Lewis explores the nature of love and faith in the face of despair. The work serves as both a testimony to enduring loss and an exploration of the process of mourning, ultimately offering readers insight into the complexities of grief and the solace that can emerge from it.
“The Orphaned Adult” by Alexander Levy explores the profound impact of losing a parent on adult lives. The book delves into the unique grief and challenges faced by adults who experience this loss, offering insights into the emotional and psychological complexities involved. Through compelling narratives and research, Levy addresses the often overlooked struggles of navigating life transitions, relationships, and personal identity after such a significant loss. The work serves as both a guide and a source of comfort, providing tools to understand and cope with the enduring effects of orphanhood in adulthood.
"Motherless Daughters" by Hope Edelman explores the profound impact of losing a mother on daughters of all ages. This book is a difficult read. It is common for women to not be able to finish it straight through for a handful of years. The book combines personal narratives, interviews, and research to illuminate the unique grief experienced by motherless daughters. Edelman discusses the long-term effects of this loss on identity, relationships, and emotional well-being. Through her insights and the stories of many women, she offers validation and understanding to those navigating their journey of grief while also highlighting the resilience that can arise from such a significant life event.
The After Grief by Hope Edelman explores the ongoing journey of grief beyond the initial mourning period. Edelman presents a nuanced understanding of how loss impacts individuals in the long term, emphasizing that grief does not end but transforms over time. Through personal anecdotes, interviews, and insightful reflections, the author illustrates the complexities of maintaining connections with loved ones who have passed while also navigating life changes. This book serves as a guide for those navigating the aftershocks of loss, offering reassurance and understanding that it is possible to find meaning and hope amid the grief.
"It's Okay to Not Be Okay" by Megan Devine, is a compassionate guide that explores the complexities of emotional struggles and the importance of addressing mental health. The book delves into themes of vulnerability, resilience, and self-acceptance, encouraging readers to embrace their feelings rather than suppress them. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and relatable insights, it offers a roadmap for navigating life's challenges and highlights the significance of seeking support. This empowering read serves as a reminder that experiencing difficult emotions is a natural part of the human experience, and it's okay to seek help along the way.
“The Grieving Brain” by Mary-Frances O’Connor explores the complex interplay between neuroscience and the grieving process. I highly recommend this for clinicians that work with the bereaved and grieving demographic but also if you’re a griever who likes science. Authored by leading experts in psychology and neuroscience, the book delves into how the brain processes loss, the emotional and cognitive challenges faced by those in mourning, and the ways in which grief can reshape our understanding of life and relationships. Through a blend of scientific research and personal narratives, it provides insights into coping mechanisms and strategies for navigating the often painful journey of grief, ultimately fostering resilience and hope in the face of profound loss.