Books Like...

'It's OK That You're Not OK: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn't Understand' by Megan Devine is a heartfelt exploration of grief and loss through the lens of the author's personal experience and professional expertise. Devine, a therapist who tragically lost her partner, eloquently articulates the complex emotions of grief in a relatable and accessible manner. offers a blend of personal stories, practical advice, and writing prompts, making it a valuable resource for those navigating the turbulent waters of grief.

Readers commend the book for its realistic and practical approach to grief, providing insights on the individual nature of grieving and emphasizing the importance of self-care and understanding. Devine's writing style is described as human, graceful, and devoid of the typical cliches often found in self-help books, offering a comforting and validating space for readers to explore their own grief journeys.

'The Grief Recovery Handbook: A Program for Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Devastating Losses' by Russell Friedman and John W. James is a powerful resource for individuals dealing with various forms of grief, whether it be from death, divorce, job loss, or other significant losses. offers a structured program with workbook techniques that guide readers through the grieving process, helping them to confront their emotions, heal, and ultimately move forward with their lives. Readers have found solace in the book's approach, which provides practical advice and strategies to navigate the complexities of grief, offering support and understanding during challenging times.

The writing style of the book is described as informative, compassionate, and engaging, with readers appreciating the wealth of information and guidance it provides. The authors draw from their own experiences of loss, creating a relatable and comforting atmosphere for readers to explore their emotions and work through their grief. Through personal anecdotes, workbook exercises, and therapeutic techniques, the book offers a comprehensive framework for individuals to process their grief and find a path towards healing and recovery.

'A Grief Observed' by C.S. Lewis is a poignant and honest exploration of the author's personal journey through grief following the death of his beloved wife. Through a series of raw and heartfelt reflections, Lewis delves into the depths of his emotions, doubts, and struggles with faith in the face of loss. The book offers a candid portrayal of how grief can challenge even the strongest beliefs and how one can navigate through the overwhelming pain of loss.

The writing style of 'A Grief Observed' is described as intimate, emotional, and deeply personal. It provides readers with a glimpse into Lewis' innermost thoughts and feelings as he grapples with the profound impact of his wife's passing. The book is noted for its unflinching honesty, poignant observations, and the way it captures the complexities of grief with both clarity and vulnerability.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 'Notes on Grief' is a poignant reflection on the author's personal experience of losing her father during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through raw and honest storytelling, Adichie shares her journey through grief, memories of her father, and the challenges of mourning in a time of restrictions and uncertainties. The book beautifully captures the complexities of grief, the cultural aspects of mourning in Nigeria, and the emotional turmoil of losing a loved one unexpectedly.

'I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye: A Companion Workbook for Surviving, Coping, & Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One' by Pamela D. Blair and Brook Noel is a compassionate guide for individuals navigating the complex emotions and challenges of sudden bereavement. It offers practical advice, coping mechanisms, and comfort to those grappling with profound loss. The writing style resonates with readers, providing a sense of understanding, companionship, and reassurance in the midst of grief.

'Dead People Suck: A Guide for Survivors of the Newly Departed' by Laurie Kilmartin is a darkly humorous yet heartfelt exploration of grief and death. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, humor, and insights, the author navigates the difficult terrain of losing a loved one, particularly a parent, to cancer. Kilmartin's writing style combines wit and raw emotion, offering readers a unique perspective on dealing with loss and finding humor in the darkest of moments.

The book delves into the author's personal experiences as her father battled cancer, entered hospice care, and ultimately passed away. With chapters that touch on sensitive topics like sex, humor, and coping mechanisms, Kilmartin's narrative provides a candid look at the complexities of grief. Through a blend of dark comedy and poignant reflections, the book offers readers a refreshing take on death and dying, encouraging them to find laughter and solace in the face of loss.

'How to Survive the Loss of a Love' by Melba Colgrove is a manual on how to navigate the grieving process after experiencing a loss, whether it be through death, separation, divorce, or any kind of grief. The book is structured in a way that combines short instructions on one side of the page with poetry on the other, providing comfort and understanding to the reader during their time of mourning. The writing style is described as simple, easy to read, and relatable, making the reader feel like the author truly understands their emotions and struggles.

'On Grief and Grieving' by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross is a compassionate and insightful exploration of the grieving process through the five stages of loss. The authors, drawing from their extensive experience, offer wisdom and guidance on dealing with death and loss. The book is structured in a way that serves as a handbook for navigating various aspects of grief, providing practical advice and shedding light on common issues faced during times of bereavement. It offers a holistic understanding of grief, helping readers comprehend the complexities of the grieving process and providing valuable insights on how to cope with loss.

The book delves into the personal journeys of the authors with grief, making it relatable and authentic. Through expert suggestions and personal anecdotes, the authors emphasize the individual nature of grief, highlighting that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. By exploring topics such as different types of grieving, stages of grief, and managing emotions, 'On Grief and Grieving' offers a comprehensive guide for both those experiencing grief and individuals supporting others through the grieving process.

Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow by Elizabeth Lesser is a deeply impactful book that shares personal journeys of growth and resilience during challenging times. The author weaves together stories of spiritual transformation and self-discovery, offering profound insights and wisdom to the readers. Lesser's writing style is described as beautiful and insightful, dropping nuggets of wisdom that resonate with readers on a profound level. The book delves into themes of personal growth, resilience, and finding strength in the face of adversity, making it a powerful guide for those navigating difficult life transitions.

Option B by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant is a non-fiction book that delves into the theme of grief, particularly focusing on Sheryl's personal experience of losing her husband unexpectedly. The book provides a raw and honest look at the process of grieving, offering insights on how to navigate through pain, guilt, and healing. Through sharing her own story, Sandberg aims to teach readers about resilience and how to find joy amidst adversity. The writing style is described as relatable, empathetic, and inspiring, making it a valuable resource for those seeking comfort and guidance during difficult times.