Grief Topics

Adult_Child Anger Audio tapes Caregivers and friends Children’s grief topics Complicated grief issues Depression Disease Father’s grief and books written by fathers General grief topics Grandparents Guilt Holidays Infant/ still born/ miscarriage Long term illness Loss of all types

Marriage Mother’s grief and books written by mothers Multiple loss Murder Near death topics Only and all loss Parental grief topics Poetry Recovery and hope Religious grief topics Sibling topics and books written by siblings Spanish language books Spiritual topics Suicide topics Sudden death Teenagers and grief Video tapes

Adult Child

Bernstein, Judith R., When The Bough Breaks: forever after the death of a son or daughter, (Kansas City, MO: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 1998).
This book is based on research conducted by the author, a mother who lost her son, and her research team who conducted fifty-five interviews of parents who lost a child. The stages of grief and complications of mourning are explored. A compilation of personal stories relay the journey undertaken by grieving parents. This is an excellent resource for professionals as well as for grieving parents.

Blank, Jeanne Webster, The Death of an Adult Child: A Book for and About Bereaved Parents, (Amityville, NY: Baywood Publishing Co., 1998).
This is the first book on the loss of an adult child. Excellent for anyone who has lost a child over 18.

Douglas, Carl & Pearl Douglas, Barry Stories: The Spiritual Journey of Parents Who Lost a Son, (Phoenix, AZ: ACW Press, 1999).
Carl & Pearl Douglas formerly of the Arlington Chapter TCF lost their son in a boating accident. This is the saga of their grief journey as bereaved Christians. The bibliography of grief literature is excellent.

Osborn, Alice C., The Douglas Connection, (Rolla, MO: Taco Tree Publications, 1995).
A mother's story of her son's death from cancer. These poems were written from her experiences after the loss of her son.

Rando, Therese A., Parental Loss of a Child, (Champaign, IL: Research Press Company, __)
Very well known book for the professional who is dealing with bereaved parents.

Schoeneck, Therese S., Hope for Bereaved: Understanding, Coping and Growing, (Syracuse, NY: Hope for Bereaved, 1995).

Vanderbilt, Gloria, A Mother's Story, (New York: Plume, 1997).
A very moving, personal memoir about the suicide of her son, Carter, and the aftermath. How she learned to survive.

Anger

Bernstein, Judith R., When The Bough Breaks: forever after the death of a son or daughter, (Kansas City, MO: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 1998).
This book is based on research conducted by the author, a mother who lost her son, and her research team who conducted fifty-five interviews of parents who lost a child. The stages of grief and complications of mourning are explored. A compilation of personal stories relay the journey undertaken by grieving parents. This is also an excellent resource for professionals as well as for grieving parents.

Blank, Jeanne Webster, The Death of an Adult Child: A Book for and About Bereaved Parents, (Amityville, NY: Baywood Publishing Co., 1998).
This is the first book on the loss of an adult child. Excellent for anyone who has lost a child over 18.

Cleckley, Mary, Elizabeth Estes & Priscilla Norton, eds., We Need Not Walk Alone After the Death of a Child, (Oak Brook, IL: The Compassionate Friends, 1992)
Anthology of writings on every possible topic dealing with the death of a child. The articles are short and easy to read. Most newly bereaved find it difficult to concentrate on long passages so these one to two page articles are very helpful.

Creel, Linda, Letters to Stephen From Mom, (Okinawa, Japan: by the author, 1997).
The grief journey of a bereaved mother who began journaling immediately following the death of her son.

Deits, Bob, Life After Loss: A Personal Guide Dealing with Death, Divorce, Job loss..., (Tucson, AZ: Fisher Books, 1992).
This is a straight forward guide for successful recovery from all types of losses, including the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, etc. It teaches the skills needed for a healthy recovery. Written by a pastoral counselor, it is an excellent book filled not only with advice, but exercises to help the grieving work through aspects of the grief process.

Fitzgerald, Helen, The Mourning Handbook: The Most Comprehensive Resource, (New York: Simon & Shuster, 1994).
The most comprehensive resource for practical and compassionate advice on coping with all aspects of death and dying. This also gives good advice to the friends of the bereaved and how they can help.

Fitzgerald, Helen, The Grieving Child: A Parent's Guide, (New York: Simon & Shuster, 1992).

Gosman, Mark, In the Wake of Death: Surviving the Loss of a Child, (Wakefield, RI: Moyer Bell, __).

Grollman, Earl, What Helped Me When My Loved One Died,( Boston: Beacon Press, 1981).

Kolf, June Cerza, Teenagers Talk About Grief, (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 199_).
Teenagers encounter anger, guilt, fear, mood swings & other emotions associated with personal loss. This book contains true life examples and offers help to grieving teens.

Krauss, Pesach & Morrie Goldfischer, Why Me? Coping with Grief, Loss, and Change, (New York, NY: Bantam Books, 1988).
A Rabbi chaplain's insights into life's sufferings and how to overcome them.

Kubler-Ross, Elisabeth, Questions and Answers on Death and Dying, (New York: MacMillan, 1974).
This expert on death and dying answers most frequently asked questions.

Kushner, Harold S., When Bad Things Happen to Good People, (New York: Avon Books, 1989).
This book was written by Harold S. Kushner, a rabbi, after the loss of his 14-year-old son. Because of this loss, he was compelled by the personal tragedy to rethink everything he had been taught about God and God’s ways. His being hurt by life led him to write a book that could be given to the person who has also been hurt by life, in hopes that his explanation will allow one to still believe in God’s goodness and fairness.

Lawrenz, Mel & Daniel Green, Life after Grief: How to Survive Loss and Trauma, (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1995).
This book addresses the universality of grief and loss and presents methods of coping with these emotions. The relationship between God and grief and loss is also discussed. Strategies for self-care and entering the healing process are provided.

Lightner, Candy & Nancy Hathaway, Giving Sorrow Words, (New York: Warner Books, 1990).
A source of comfort and understanding to those who face the loss of a loved one.

Miller, William A., When Going to Pieces Holds You Together, (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House, 1976).

Padovani, Martin H., Healing Wounded Emotions, (Mystic, CT: Twenty-third Publications, 1989).

Robinson, Haddon, Grief, (Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Medical Society/ Zondervan).
Reflections on the stages of grief.

Sanders, Catherine M., Dr., How to Survive the Loss of a Child. (Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1992).

Schiff, Harriet S., The Bereaved Parent, (New York: Crown Publishers, Inc., 1977).
Impact of bereavement in all areas of a parent's life. For parents at any stage of anguish. A bereaved parent confronts the day-to-day decisions and hardships that must be faced.

Staudacher, Carol, Men & Grief: a Guide for Men Surviving the Death of a Loved One. (Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, 1991).

Tatelbaum, Judy, The Courage to Grieve: Creative Living, Recovery & Growth, (New York: Harper & Row Publishers, 1980).
An excellent book on all aspects of grief and grief resolution. Includes important ideas about self-help and avenues to finish unfinished business and teach people how to let go. This is one of the best we've ever read!

Toder, Francine, When Your Child Is Gone: Learning to Live Again, (New York: Fawcrest Crest, 1986). For parents who find life exceedingly difficult as a result of the loss of a child.

Turnbull, Sharon, Who Lives happily Ever After?, (Omaha, NE: Centering Corporation, 1990).
This short brochure is an excellent resource to parents who have recently lost a child to violence. A good summary of emotional and physical grief is provided as well as information on how grief impacts different members of the family, from parents to children to grandparent

Audio Tapes

Caregivers and Friends

Noel, Brook, & Blair, Pamela D., I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping, and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Champion Press. LTD, 2000).
Noel and Blair wrote this book for those who face the challenge of sudden death, having faced sudden loss themselves. Sudden death and its role in the cycle of life are explored. This book shows grieving readers how to endure, survive and grow from the pain and turmoil surrounding human loss.
 

Osmont, Kelly.  What Can I Say? How to Help Someone who is Grieving. (Portland, OR: Nobility Press, 1988). An informative booklet on how to help someone who is grieving. Practical suggestions and guidelines in assessing the needs of a grieving person.



 

Prend, Ashley Davis, Transcending Loss, Understanding the Lifelong Impact of Grief and How to Make It Meaningful, (New York: Berkley Books, 1997).
Prend has punctuated her work with sensitive and loving examples as she gently pulls one through the many problems of grieving. She shows one a spiritual pathway that ultimately leads to healing, transforming the nightmare of grief into a place of strength and new energy. This books guides one through the darkness of bereavement and lifts one lovingly onto a new beginning.

Schiff, Harriet Sarnoff, The Bereaved Parent, (New York, New York: Penguin Books, 1977).
Because she herself is a bereaved mother, Harriet Sarnoff Schiff is able to give genuine comfort. If you have lost a child, you know that pain like yours cannot be erased, and Schiff does not attempt to do so. Instead, she offers guidelines and practical step by step suggestions to help you cope with every stage of grief.

Van Praagh, James, Healing Grief: Reclaiming Life After Any Loss, (New York, New York: New American Library, 2000).
In this book, James Van Praagh offers various methods of facing loss and understanding grief in healthy ways. He discusses the stages of grief and what to expect as you go through the process. He shares his personal experiences of losses, as well as the experiences of those who have sought his psychic assistance. He discusses the loss of all who are involved when someone dies, parents, partners, children, grandparents, siblings, and friends. Also included are healthy guidelines that will help you make healthy choices and give you the encouragement to go on.

 

Children's Grief

Grollman, Earl. A., Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child, (Boston: Beacon Press, 1990).
A compassionate guide for adults and children to read together, featuring a read-along story, answers to questions children ask about death, and a comprehensive list of resources and organizations that can help. A wonderful book to have if you have a child who is grieving.

Jarratt, Claudia Jewett. Helping Children Cope with Separation and Loss. (Boston: The Harvard Common Press, 1994).

Linn, Erin 150 Facts About Grieving Children. (Incline Village, NV: The Publisher's Mark, 1990).This book is a reminder that the grief of children is as deep and as powerful as adult grief. The author provides parents with a quick reference that is easy to read.

Linn, Erin, I Know Just How You Feel...Avoiding the Cliches of Grief ,(Incline Village, NV: The Publisher's Mark, 1986).
How to avoid the as "be strong" (You've got to get a hold of yourself), "Hurry up" (time will heal), "Guilt" (only the good die young), "God" (it was God's will), "Discount" (I know just how you feel). This book answers the question "What can I say to them?"

Van Praagh, James, Healing Grief: Reclaiming Life After Any Loss, (New York, New York: New American Library, 2000).
In this book, James Van Praagh offers various methods of facing loss and understanding grief in healthy ways. He discusses the stages of grief and what to expect as you go through the process. He shares his personal experiences of losses, as well as the experiences of those who have sought his psychic assistance. He discusses the loss of all who are involved when someone dies, parents, partners, children, grandparents, siblings, and friends. Also included are healthy guidelines that will help you make healthy choices and give you the encouragement to go on.

Complicated Grief

Attig, Thomas, The Heart of Grief, (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
Thomas Attig shows in his book how grief can be the path toward a lasting love for those who have died. He describes grieving as a transition from loving in presence to loving in separation. He urges us to explore ways in which our memories of our loved ones can be sustained, our understanding of them enhanced, and their legacies embraced, so they continue to play active roles in our everyday and inner lives.
 

Noel, Brook, & Blair, Pamela D., I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping, and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Champion Press. LTD, 2000).
Noel and Blair wrote this book for those who face the challenge of sudden death, having faced sudden loss themselves. Sudden death and its role in the cycle of life are explored. This book shows grieving readers how to endure, survive and grow from the pain and turmoil surrounding human loss.

Prend, Ashley Davis, Transcending Loss, Understanding the Lifelong Impact of Grief and How to Make It Meaningful, (New York: Berkley Books, 1997).
Prend has punctuated her work with sensitive and loving examples as she gently pulls one through the many problems of grieving. She shows one a spiritual pathway that ultimately leads to healing, transforming the nightmare of grief into a place of strength and new energy. This books guides one through the darkness of bereavement and lifts one lovingly onto a new beginning.
 

Depression

Disease

National Kidney Foundation, Inc., For Those Who Give and Grieve: A Book For Donor Families, (New York: National Kidney Foundation, Inc., 1997).
A short book sent to all donor families through the National Kidney Foundation, Inc. This book was written by a donor mother, in hopes that it may help donor families immediately and in the months that follow. It expresses not only her thoughts and feelings, but those of other donor families who are willing to share what they learned from their grief.

Father’s Grief

Angell, James W., O Susan! Looking Forward with Hope After the Death of a Child.
No review available at this time.

Clarke, Jack, Life After Grief: A Soul Journey After Suicide, (Marietta, GA: Personal Pathways Press, 1989).
An intriguing book, the last chapter has a list of coping skills that helped the author recover from after the suicide of his daughter.

Douglas, Carl & Pearl Douglas. Barry Stories: The Spiritual Journey of Parents Who Lost a Son ,(Phoenix, AZ: ACW Press, 1999).

Edler,Rich, Into the Valley and Out Again, (Torrance, CA: Merryweather Publishing Co., 1996). Former president of The Compassionate Friends, wrote an honest, direct, and deeply moving narrative of a father's journey from the depth of grief to a reaffirmation of life, following the loss of his 18-yr-old son, Mark. Includes a separate chapter written by his surviving son, Rick.

Golden, Thomas R., Swallowed by a Snake. The Gift of the Masculine Side of Healing .
A book for men or women about the masculine side of healing from loss. It is meant to be a map and guide through the experience of loss. It will help you through the pain of loss and into a place of healing and transformation. The author is a speaker and psychotherapist and has worked in the field of healing from loss for over 20 years and lives in the Washington, D. C. area.

Livingston, Gordon, M. D., Only Spring: on Mourning the Death of my Son, (New York: HarperSanFrancisco, 1995).
The writer lost two sons. The first to suicide and the second, who is the focus of this book, to leukemia.

Munday, John S. & Frances Wohlenhaus-Munday, I Wasn't Ready, (Ocean City, MD: Skipjack Press, 1991).
No review available at this time.

Patton, Dwight, L., Andy's Mountain: Fathers Grieve Too, (Forest, VA: Dwight. L. Patton, 1998).
This is one of the best books for father’s according to one of the fathers in the Arlington Chapter! He tells his story very honestly, and one really shares his pain. The author also includes some powerful poetry of his own. A must read for fathers.

Rando, Therese A., Parental Loss of a Child, Champaign, IL: Research Press Company)
This work contains information about the grief of fathers. It is not written directly for fathers, but contains excellent information from the research in the grief field.

Schatz, Bill, Healing a Father's Grief.
The author shares his feelings and gives understanding as to how many fathers handle grief. Includes ideas to help with private thinking times and signs of healing. This booklet is sent out in the newly bereaved packets from our Chapter.

Sittser, Gerald L., A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows Through Loss, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1996).
Gerald Sittser lost his wife, daughter, and mother in the same head on collison. He is a professor of religion and he looks at how, through profound loss due to many reasons, people learn to grow, change, recover. It is a remarkable book in so many aspects. Very spiritual.

Van Praagh, James, Healing Grief: Reclaiming Life After Any Loss, (New York, New York: New American Library, 2000).
In this book, James Van Praagh offers various methods of facing loss and understanding grief in healthy ways. He discusses the stages of grief and what to expect as you go through the process. He shares his personal experiences of losses, as well as the experiences of those who have sought his psychic assistance. He discusses the loss of all who are involved when someone dies, parents, partners, children, grandparents, siblings, and friends. Also included are healthy guidelines that will help you make healthy choices and give you the encouragement to go on.

Van Vechten, B.D., The First Year of Forever: Surviving the Death of a Son, (New York: Atheneum, 1982).
On surviving a teenager's accidental death. Other parents may find their own reactions are not unusual, but in fact normal and typical.

General Grief Topics

Attig, Thomas, The Heart of Grief, (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
Thomas Attig shows in his book how grief can be the path toward a lasting love for those who have died. He describes grieving as a transition from loving in presence to loving in separation. He urges us to explore ways in which our memories of our loved ones can be sustained, our understanding of them enhanced, and their legacies embraced, so they continue to play active roles in our everyday and inner lives.

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981).

Kolf, June Cerza. When Will I Stop Hurting? Dealing with a Recent Death. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1987). Practical guide for teenagers for dealing with the stages and emotions of grief.

Linn, Erin, I Know Just How You Feel...Avoiding the Cliches of Grief ,(Incline Village, NV: The Publisher's Mark, 1986).
How to avoid the as "be strong" (You've got to get a hold of yourself), "Hurry up" (time will heal), "Guilt" (only the good die young), "God" (it was God's will), "Discount" (I know just how you feel). This book answers the question "What can I say to them?

Manning, Doug. Don't Take My Grief Away: What to Do When You Lose, (San Francisco: Harper SanFrancisco, 1977). Addresses the painful, often disorienting aftermath of the death of a loved one. Helps the bereaved cope with emotions and confront the decisions that are an inevitable part of adjustment.

Prend, Ashley Davis, Transcending Loss, Understanding the Lifelong Impact of Grief and How to Make It Meaningful, (New York: Berkley Books, 1997).
Prend has punctuated her work with sensitive and loving examples as she gently pulls one through the many problems of grieving. She shows one a spiritual pathway that ultimately leads to healing, transforming the nightmare of grief into a place of strength and new energy. This books guides one through the darkness of bereavement and lifts one lovingly onto a new beginning.

Zeitlin, Steve & Harlow, Ilana, Giving a Voice to Sorrow, (New York, New York: Berkley Publishing Group, 2001).
This book is a grief support group book that, through storytelling, personal rituals, and memorials helps us explore unique ways to shape and enact our grief. It helps to show how individuals and communities come together to celebrate the lives and memories of those they have lost and to find a balance between remembrance and letting go.
 

Grandparents

Guilt

Baugher,Robert, A Guide to Understanding Guilt During Bereavement, New Castle, WA: by the author, 1996).
By investigating the various dimensions of guilt in the bereavement process through description and example, the author hopes that you can look at your life and gain important insights.

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981)

Tatelbaum, Judy. The Courage to Grieve: Creative Living, Recovery and Growth Through Grief, (New York: Harper & Row Publishers, 1980). An excellent book on all aspects of grief and grief resolution. Includes important ideas about self-help and avenues to finish unfinished business and teach people how to let go. This is one of the best we've ever read!

Holidays

Infant/ Still Born/ Miscarriage

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981).

Long Term Illness

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981)

Loss of All Types

Marriage and Grief

Berstein, Judith R., Ph.D., When the Bough Breaks: Forever After the Death of a Son or Daughter, Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 1997.
The chapter, “Mourning in Marriage,” explores the differences between male and female grieving methods, debunks the high divorce rate among bereaved couples, and gives excellent advice on coping skills to understand what is happening, not only to one spouse but both! The book cover states that this book “acknowledges that no family ever ‘recovers’ from this tradegy, but rather adapts to a life irretrievably altered.” This is an excellent resource for the grieving family.

Church, Martha Jo, Helene Chazin and Faith Ewald, When a Baby Dies, Oak Brook, Ill: The Compassionate Friends, 1981.
This is an excellent book for the younger parents who have lost young children. It gives sound advice on subjects such as sexual intimacy and starting another pregnancy.

Dickson, Cis, “The Divorce Myth,” Friends, Caring and Sharing, Oak Brook, Ill.: The Compassionate Friends, Fall 1996.
Cis, a former TCF Regional Coordinator, explores the “myth” of the high divorce rate among couples who have lost their child/children.

Douglas, Carl and Pearl Douglas, The Barry Stories: The Spiritual Journey of Parents Who Lost a Son, Phoenix, AZ: ACW Press, 1999.
Written by a former member of the Arlington Chapter TCF, this book emphasizes the importance of faith in a marriage to help keep the couple together.

Finkbeiner, Ann K., After the Death of a Child: Living with Loss Through the Years, New York: The Free Press, 1996.
In the chapter, “Fathers and Mothers, Husbands and Wives,” the author explores the differences between the ways mothers and fathers grieve and who grieves more—the mother or the father! The author also explores the “divorce myth,” and says that most of the couples she interviewed have stayed married. This is an interesting book, but is not as easy to read as some of the others due to its layout and structure.

Klass, Dennis, Ph.D., Parental Grief: Solace and Resolution, New York: Springer Publishing Co., 1988.
This work is more for care-givers than the bereaved parent. The focus on marriage is more positive and he gives examples of couples and how they work out the grieving issues. It is not easy to understand.

Knapp, Ronald J., Beyond Endurance: When a Child Dies, New York: Schocken Books, 1986.
Over 155 bereaved families were interviewed to determine how they coped or how they failed to cope after the loss of their child. This is one of the best works to help identify how forces that were in place prior to the child’s death affect the chances of positive recovery from grief. There are very interesting charts in chapter seven, “Family and Bereavement,” showing patterns of parental grief responses according to the type of death.

Pearson, Judy C., Marriage after Mourning: the Secrets of Surviving Couples, Dubuque, IA: Kendall/ Hunt Publishing Co., 1995.
The first forty pages contain general information about marital problems encountered by couples. The remainder of the book is composed of chapters illustrating various situations encountered by grieving parents. At the end of each chapter is an analysis of the problem and ideas to help resolve it. The focus of this work is not particularly devoted to the loss of a child. The author was especially interested in how the marriage survived after mourning.

Rando, Therese A., Ph.D., “Myths and Their Impact on Grief and Marriage,” The Compassionate Friends Newsletter, Oak Brook, Il, Vol. 13 No. 3, Summer, 1990.
Excellent short article on the myths of grieving couples that reiterates the points made over and over in almost every book.

Rosof, Barbara D., The Worst Loss: How Families Heal from the Death of a Child, New York: Henry Holt & Co., 1994.
This is a marvelous book for parents with practical advice on how to deal with a grieving partner. Some of the topics cover sexual relations, factors prior to the death that prevent healing, and ways we are different in the grieving process.

Schiff, Harriet Sarnoff, The Bereaved Parent, New York: Crown Publishers, 1977.
One of the earliest books on the market dealing with parental loss. It is a classic. Although she states that many couples are in serious marital difficulties months after the death of their child, please don’t let that influence you into believing we can not survive!

Tatelbaum, Judy, The Courage to Grieve: Creative Living, Recovery, & Growth Through Grief, New York: Harper & Row, 1980.
This work has endured. It gives positive ideas for the resolution of grief of all types, not just for the loss of a child. It has always been one of the most popular books in our local TCF Chapter library

Mother's Grief

Van Praagh, James, Healing Grief: Reclaiming Life After Any Loss, (New York, New York: New American Library, 2000).
In this book, James Van Praagh offers various methods of facing loss and understanding grief in healthy ways. He discusses the stages of grief and what to expect as you go through the process. He shares his personal experiences of losses, as well as the experiences of those who have sought his psychic assistance. He discusses the loss of all who are involved when someone dies, parents, partners, children, grandparents, siblings, and friends. Also included are healthy guidelines that will help you make healthy choices and give you the encouragement to go on.

Multiple Loss

Murder

Near Death Topics

Van Praagh, James, Healing Grief: Reclaiming Life After Any Loss, (New York, New York: New American Library, 2000).
In this book, James Van Praagh offers various methods of facing loss and understanding grief in healthy ways. He discusses the stages of grief and what to expect as you go through the process. He shares his personal experiences of losses, as well as the experiences of those who have sought his psychic assistance. He discusses the loss of all who are involved when someone dies, parents, partners, children, grandparents, siblings, and friends. Also included are healthy guidelines that will help you make healthy choices and give you the encouragement to go on.
 

Only and All Loss
 

Parental topics

Arnold, Joan Hagan & Penelope Buschman Gemma, A Child Dies: A Portrait of Family Grief, (2nd ed., Philadelphia, PA: The Charles Press Publishers, 1994)
This book is meant for caregivers and professionals as they attempt to understand how the family unit grieves through different types of death: the infant, the young child, the older child, the adult child. The poems chosen by the authors to illustrate the chapters are marvelous.

Bayly, Joseph, The Last Thing We Talk About: Help and Hope for Those Who Grieve, (Elgin, IL: David C. Cook Publishing, Co., 1992),
This book takes us on the personal journey of the grief of a bereaved father who has lost three sons. In this journey the author addresses facing and trying to understand death, dealing with grief, and explaining death to a child. Practical help, such as dealing with funeral directors, is also offered. Religious questions surrounding death are addressed as the author looks to the Bible for answers.

Bernstein, Judith R., When The Bough Breaks: forever after the death of a son or daughter, (Kansas City, MO: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 1998).
This book is based on research conducted by the author, a mother who lost her son, and her research team who conducted fifty-five interviews of parents who lost a child. The stages of grief and complications of mourning are explored. A compilation of personal stories relay the journey undertaken by grieving parents. This is an excellent resource for professionals as well. This work offers bereaved parents the comfort of learning how others have navigated this rutted road. It is the first book to assess the enduring consequences of loss and the first to shed light on the evolution in values, perceptions, and relationships that follow the death of a child. With great honesty and empathy, it acknowledges that no family ever "recovers" from this tragedy, but rather adapts to a life irretrievably altered.

Dunn, Sharon A. We Bring Her Flowers.(Santa Barbara, CA: Fithian Press, 1990).

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981).

Kushner, Harold S., When Bad Things Happen to Good People, (New York: Avon Books, 1989).
This book was written by Harold S. Kushner, a rabbi, after the loss of his 14 year old son. Because of this loss, he was compelled by the personal tragedy to rethink everything he had been taught about God and God’s ways. His being hurt by life led him to write a book that could be given to the person who has also been hurt by life, in hopes that his explanation will allow one to still believe in God’s goodness and fairness.

Linn, Erin, I Know Just How You Feel...Avoiding the Cliches of Grief ,(Incline Village, NV: The Publisher's Mark, 1986).
How to avoid the as "be strong" (You've got to get a hold of yourself), "Hurry up" (time will heal), "Guilt" (only the good die young), "God" (it was God's will), "Discount" (I know just how you feel). This book answers the question "What can I say to them?"

Schiff, Harriet Sarnoff, The Bereaved Parent, (New York, New York: Penguin Books, 1977).
Because she herself is a bereaved mother, Harriet Sarnoff Schiff is able to give genuine comfort. If you have lost a child, you know that pain like yours cannot be erased, and Schiff does not attempt to do so. Instead, she offers guidelines and practical step by step suggestions to help you cope with every stage of grief.
 

Poetry

Dunn, Sharon A. We Bring Her Flowers.(Santa Barbara, CA: Fithian Press, 1990).

Recovery and Hope

Attig, Thomas, The Heart of Grief, (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
Thomas Attig shows in his book how grief can be the path toward a lasting love for those who have died. He describes grieving as a transition from loving in presence to loving in separation. He urges us to explore ways in which our memories of our loved ones can be sustained, our understanding of them enhanced, and their legacies embraced, so they continue to play active roles in our everyday and inner lives.

Prend, Ashley Davis, Transcending Loss, Understanding the Lifelong Impact of Grief and How to Make It Meaningful, (New York: Berkley Books, 1997).
Prend has punctuated her work with sensitive and loving examples as she gently pulls one through the many problems of grieving. She shows one a spiritual pathway that ultimately leads to healing, transforming the nightmare of grief into a place of strength and new energy. This books guides one through the darkness of bereavement and lifts one lovingly onto a new beginning.

National Kidney Foundation, Inc., For Those Who Give and Grieve: A Book For Donor Families, (New York: National Kidney Foundation, Inc., 1997).
A short book sent to all donor families through the National Kidney Foundation, Inc. This book was written by a donor mother, in hopes that it may help donor families immediately and in the months that follow. It expresses not only her thoughts and feelings, but those of other donor families who are willing to share what they learned from their grief.

Noel, Brook, & Blair, Pamela D., I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping, and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Champion Press. LTD, 2000).
Noel and Blair wrote this book for those who face the challenge of sudden death, having faced sudden loss themselves. Sudden death and its role in the cycle of life are explored. This book shows grieving readers how to endure, survive and grow from the pain and turmoil surrounding human loss.

Schiff, Harriet Sarnoff, The Bereaved Parent, (New York, New York: Penguin Books, 1977).
Because she herself is a bereaved mother, Harriet Sarnoff Schiff is able to give genuine comfort. If you have lost a child, you know that pain like yours cannot be erased, and Schiff does not attempt to do so. Instead, she offers guidelines and practical step by step suggestions to help you cope with every stage of grief.

Zeitlin, Steve & Harlow, Ilana, Giving a Voice to Sorrow, (New York, New York: Berkley Publishing Group, 2001).
This book is a grief support group book that, through storytelling, personal rituals, and memorials helps us explore unique ways to shape and enact our grief. It helps to show how individuals and communities come together to celebrate the lives and memories of those they have lost and to find a balance between remembrance and letting go.

Religious Topics

Allen, Charles L., Roads to Radiant Living, (Old Tappan, NJ: Spire Books, 1974).

Allen, Charles L., Life More Abundant, (Old Tappan, NJ: Spire Books, 1974).

Angell, James W., O Susan! Looking Forward with Hope After the Death of a Child.

Bayly, Joseph, The Last Thing We Talk About: Help and Hope for Those Who Grieve, (Elgin, IL: David C. Cook Publishing, Co., 1992).
Religious questions surrounding death are addressed as the author looks to the Bible for answers.

Bloom, Lois A., Mourning, After Suicide, (Cleveland, OH: The Pilgrim Press, 1986).
A view of suicide from the Christian faith. Very inspirational. Asks the question: where is God in this?

Carley, Royal V., The Wonderful Promises of God as Expressed in the Twenty- third Psalm, (Norwalk, CT: C. R. Gibson Company).
Inspirational readings for the bereaved from the scriptures.

Clarke, Jack, Life After Grief: A Soul Journey After Suicide, Marietta, GA: Personal Pathways Press, 1989).
An intriguing book, the last chapter has a list of coping skills that helped the author recover from the suicide of his daughter.

Douglas, Carl & Pearl Douglas, Barry Stories: The Spiritual Journey of Parents Who Lost a Son, (Phoenix, AZ: ACW Press, 1999.
Carl & Pearl Douglas of the Potomac (formerly of the Arlington)Chapter TCF lost their son in a boating accident. This is the saga of their grief journey as bereaved Christians. The bibliography of grief literature is excellent.

Gordon, S.D, Life After Death, (Uhrichsvill, OH: Barbour & Co., Inc., undated).
This book looks to the Bible for answers about death and for strength to cope with grief. The hope given from the author's belief of life after death is also discussed.

Heavilin, Marilyn, Roses in December, (San Bernardino, CA: Here's Life Publishers, 1986).
A mother's personal journey of loss, grief, comfort, and hope written from a deeply Christian perspective. She takes you into the deepest well of sorrow and somehow shows you a way to climb out.

Kushner, Harold S., When Bad Things Happen to Good People, (New York: Avon Books, 1989).
This book was written by Harold S. Kushner, a rabbi, after the loss of his 14 year old son. Because of this loss, he was compelled by the personal tragedy to rethink everything he had been taught about God and God’s ways. His being hurt by life led him to write a book that could be given to the person who has also been hurt by life, in hopes that his explanation will allow one to still believe in God’s goodness and fairness.

Lawrenz, Mel & Green, Daniel, Life after Grief: How to Survive Loss and Trauma (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1995).
The relationship between God and grief and loss is discussed. Strategies for self-care and entering the healing process are provided.

Manning, Doug. Don't Take My Grief Away: What to Do When You Lose, (San Francisco: Harper SanFrancisco, 1977). Addresses the painful, often disorienting aftermath of the death of a loved one. Helps the bereaved cope with emotions and confront the decisions that are an inevitable part of adjustment.

Roberts, Oral. How To Get Through Your Struggles, (Tulsa, OK: Oral Roberts, 1977).

Rogness, Alvin N., Appointment with Death, (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc., 1972).
After his son's sudden death, a pastor writes of the Christian life, faith, death, and hope.

Sittser, Gerald L., A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows Through Loss, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1996).
Gerald Sittser lost his wife, daughter, and mother in the same car accident. He is a professor of religion and he looks at how, through profound loss due to many reasons, people learn to grow, change, and recover. It is a remarkable book.

Weems, Ann, Psalms of Lament, (Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1995).
The author is a Christian poet and in these laments, she pours out her anguish and pain over the loss of her son who was murdered. All parents can identify with these beautifully written expressions of grief.

Sibling

Spanish Language

Spiritual Topics

Attig, Thomas, The Heart of Grief, (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
Thomas Attig shows in his book how grief can be the path toward a lasting love for those who have died. He describes grieving as a transition from loving in presence to loving in separation. He urges us to explore ways in which our memories of our loved ones can be sustained, our understanding of them enhanced, and their legacies embraced, so they continue to play active roles in our everyday and inner lives.

Prend, Ashley Davis, Transcending Loss, Understanding the Lifelong Impact of Grief and How to Make It Meaningful, (New York: Berkley Books, 1997).
Prend has punctuated her work with sensitive and loving examples as she gently pulls one through the many problems of grieving. She shows one a spiritual pathway that ultimately leads to healing, transforming the nightmare of grief into a place of strength and new energy. This books guides one through the darkness of bereavement and lifts one lovingly onto a new beginning.

Sudden Death

Grollman, Earl.What Helped Me When My Loved One Died(Boston: Beacon Press, 1981)

Noel, Brook, & Blair, Pamela D., I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping, and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One, (Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Champion Press. LTD, 2000).
Noel and Blair wrote this book for those who face the challenge of sudden death, having faced sudden loss themselves. Sudden death and its role in the cycle of life are explored. This book shows grieving readers how to endure, survive and grow from the pain and turmoil surrounding human loss.

Suicide

Bayly, Joseph, The Last Thing We Talk About: Help and Hope for Those Who Grieve, (Elgin, IL: David C. Cook Publishing, Co., 1992).
This book takes us on the personal journey of the grief of a bereaved father who has lost three sons. In this journey the author addresses facing and trying to understand death, dealing with grief, and explaining death to a child. Practical help, such as dealing with funeral directors, is also offered. Religious questions surrounding death are addressed as the author looks to the Bible for answers.

Bernstein,Judith R., When The Bough Breaks: forever after the death of a son or daughter, (Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 1997).
This is a book that offers bereaved parents the comfort of learning how others have navigated this rutted road. It is the first book to assess the enduring consequences of loss and the first to shed light on the evolution in values, perceptions, and relationships that follow the death of a child. With great honesty and empathy, it acknowledges that no family ever "recovers" from this tragedy, but rather adapts to a life irretrievably altered.

Blank, Jeanne Webster, The Death of an Adult Child: A Book for and About Bereaved Parents, (Amityville, NY: Baywood Publishing Co., 1998).
This is the first book on the loss of an adult child. Excellent for anyone who has lost a child over 18.

Bloom, Lois A., Mourning, After Suicide, (Cleveland, OH: The Pilgrim Press, 1986).
A view of suicide from the Christian faith. Very inspirational. Asks the question: where is God in this?

Bolton, Iris with Curtis Mitchell, My Son...My Son...A Guide to Healing After a Suicide, (Atlanta, GA: Bolton Press, 1991).
A mother's and professional counselor's personal story of her son's suicide. It is a story of devastating tragedy and eventual triumph to begin life again.

Clarke, Jack, Life After Grief: A Soul Journey After Suicide, (Marietta, GA: Personal Pathways Press, 1989).
An intriguing book, the last chapter has a list of coping skills that helped the author recover from the suicide of his daughter.

Cleckley, Mary, Elizabeth Estes & Priscilla Norton, eds, We Need Not Walk Alone After the Death of a Child, (Oak Brook, IL: The Compassionate Friends, 1992).
Anthology of writings on every possible topic dealing with the death of a child. The articles are short and easy to read. Most newly bereaved find it difficult to concentrate on long passages so these one to two page articles.

Deits, Bob, Life After Loss: A Personal Guide Dealing with Death, Divorce, Job Change & Relocation, (Tucson, AZ: Fisher Books, 1992).
This is a straight forward guide for successful recovery from all types of losses, including the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, etc. It teaches the skills needed for a healthy recovery. Written by a pastoral counselor, it is an excellent book filled not only with advice, but exercises to help the grieving work through aspects of the grief process.

Doka, Kenneith J., ed., Living With Grief After Sudden Loss: Suicide, Homicide, Accident, Heart Attack, Stroke, (Bristol, PA: Taylor & Francis, 1996).
This book was produced as a companion to the Hospice Foundation of America's fifth annual National Bereavement Teleconference. It is a comprehensive book for professionals and caregivers, describing the differences in grieving for ethnic, religous, and cultural groups. Each chapter takes on a different topic such as Law Enforcement and EMS Personnel, the response of schools and teacher, Heart attacks and strokes, vehicular crashes, suicide, sudden violent death, complicated grief in the military, traumatic death: treatment implications, social psychological aspects of disaster death, grief counseling for survivors of traumatic loss.

Fitzgerald, Helen, The Mourning Handbook: The Most Comprehensive Resource for Practical & Compassionate Advice on Coping With All Aspects of Death and Dying, (New York: Simon & Shuster, 1994).
The most comprehensive resource for practical and compassionate advice on coping with all aspects of death and dying. This also gives good advice to the friends of the bereaved and how they can help.

Glover, Beryl S., Lost and Found: Recovering From a Loved One's Suicide, (Northport, AL: SEVGO Press Publishers, 1997).
This is the story of a mother who lost not only her daughter to suicide, but her brother also. In addition to her story, it includes the stories of 12 other suicide survivors who describe the challenges and triumphs of rebuilding their lives. There is an extensive chapter on how other people can understand what is happening to a suicide survivor.

Grollman, Earl A., Suicide: Prevention, Intervention, Postvention, (Boston: Beacon Press, 1988).
This is a more technical book written by a Rabbi who writes extensively on grief issues. The chapters all cover different topics ranging from how to intervene when an attempt has been made, how to comfort families and friends who are the survivors of a suicide, views on suicide throughout history, social context of suicide, and clues on how to prevent it.

Harness-Overley, Patricia, A Message of Hope: for Surviving the Tragedy of Suicide, (Upland, CA: Bradley Press, 1992).
This is the story of one mother and how she learned to survive after the suicide of her son. It is a very moving book and offers concrete advice and help for those who are experiencing the loss of their child through suicide and it will assist the friends and associates who want to know how to help the bereaved.

Katz, Carole, Laurie, Laurie Hallelujah! (Manchester, CT: Dandelion House, 1982).
A moving collections of thoughts and poetry written over ten years by a 25-year old suicide victim.

Kolf, June Cerza, Teenagers Talk About Grief, (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 199_).
Teenagers encounter anger, guilt, fear, mood swings & other emotions associated with personal loss. This book contains true life examples and offers help to grieving teens.

Moody, Raymond A. Jr., M.D., Reflections on Life After Life, (New York, New York: Bantam Books, 1977).
In this early life after dying book, Dr. Moody’s research on near death experiences in 1977 began an investigation into subjects who had experienced clinical death and had been revived. Moody explains how death need not be feared and how history and religion explain death.
 

Teenagers

Grollman, Earl A., Straight Talk About Death for Teenagers: how to Cope with Losing Someone You Love. (Boston: Beacon Press, 1993).Written in an accessible style, it guides the grieving teenager through the myriad of symptoms of grief. Offers a selection of guided writings to encourage teens to actively work through their feelings at their own pace.

Straight Talk About Death for Teenagers: How to Cope with Losing Someone You Love

 

Kolf, June Cerza. When Will I Stop Hurting? Dealing with a Recent Death. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1987). Practical guide for teenagers for dealing with the stages and emotions of grief.

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