Books Like...
'Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives' by David Eagleman is a collection of short stories exploring various hypothetical scenarios of the afterlife. Each story presents a unique version of what happens after death, sparking the reader's imagination and contemplation. The writing style is concise, imaginative, and thought-provoking, with each tale offering a different perspective on life after death.
If you liked Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:'What Dreams May Come' by Richard Matheson is a novel that delves into the concept of life after death. The protagonist, Chris, dies in a tragic accident and finds himself in the afterlife, where he discovers a mental world shaped by the minds of its inhabitants. The book follows Chris's journey as he navigates through different realms, including heaven and hell, in an attempt to reunite with his beloved wife, Annie, who is struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts in the wake of his passing. Matheson's writing style presents a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as love, devotion, the afterlife, and the power of belief.
I began to hear a whispering voice. I couldn’t make out the words. Briefly, I could see a form nearby. My eyes were closed but I saw it. I couldn’t tell if the form was male or female but I knew that ... - #2
Save:'Elsewhere' by Gabrielle Zevin is a young adult novel that follows the story of fifteen-year-old Liz Hall who wakes up on an ocean liner in the afterlife after dying in a hit-and-run accident. In Elsewhere, the dead age backward until they are infants and sent back to Earth. Liz must come to terms with her death, let go of her past life, and navigate her new existence in Elsewhere. The book explores themes of life, death, grief, acceptance, and the concept of starting anew in the afterlife.
The writing style of 'Elsewhere' is described as imaginative, thought-provoking, and engaging. The author, Gabrielle Zevin, presents a unique perspective on the afterlife, creating a world that is both familiar and different from our own. The plot unfolds with a mix of humor, touching moments, and deep reflections on life and loss, making it a compelling read for young adult readers.
Liz (who is Elizabeth to her teachers; Lizzie at home, except when she’s in trouble; and just plain Liz everywhere else in the world) sits up in bed, bumping her head on an unforeseen upper bunk. From... - #3
Save:'Passage' by Connie Willis is a science fiction novel that delves into the exploration of Near Death Experiences (NDEs) through the eyes of researchers at a hospital. The story follows the investigations of two scientists, a psychologist, and a neurologist, who are studying NDEs both naturally and artificially induced. The book portrays a deep dive into the human psyche, mortality, and the mysteries surrounding life after death. Willis weaves a complex narrative filled with suspense, scientific exploration, and a touch of the supernatural, all set in a modern hospital setting.
Willis' writing style in 'Passage' is characterized by intricate plotting, detailed scientific explanations, and well-developed characters. The author creates a sense of urgency and intensity throughout the book, keeping readers engaged with a fast-paced narrative that explores profound themes of death, spirituality, and the human spirit. The story unfolds through a series of twists and turns, leading to a climactic revelation that challenges the characters' beliefs and perceptions about the afterlife.
Joanna waited. Any question, even “How dark was it?” could be a leading one when it came to interviewing people about their near-death experiences, and most people, when confronted with a silence, wou... - #4
Save:'Einstein's Dreams' by Alan Lightman is a collection of vignettes that explore various concepts of time through the dreams of a young Einstein. Each dream presents a different world where time functions in unique and fantastical ways, such as running backwards, depending on perception or mood, or standing still at the center. The book delves into the relationship between humans and time, offering philosophical reflections on how different perceptions of time can shape individuals' lives. Lightman's writing style is described as lyrical, dreamlike, and poetic, creating a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time through short, beautifully written vignettes.
In some distant arcade, a clock tower calls out six times and then stops. The young man slumps at his desk. He has come to the office at dawn, after another upheaval. His hair is uncombed and his trou... - #5
Save:'The Brief History of the Dead' by Kevin Brockmeier is a unique exploration of life, death, and the afterlife. The story alternates between the City of the Dead, where deceased individuals reside until they are no longer remembered by the living, and the real world where a woman named Laura Byrd is stranded in Antarctica amidst a global pandemic. The novel delves into deep philosophical questions about memory, human connections, and the concept of an afterlife, all while weaving together multiple storylines that gradually intersect as the narrative progresses.
When the blind man arrived in the city, he claimed that he had traveled across a desert of living sand. First he had died, he said, and then—snap!—the desert. He told the story to everyone who would l... - #6
Save:Many Lives, Many Masters by Brian L. Weiss is a thought-provoking book that delves into the concept of past life therapy and the possibility of life after death. The book follows the journey of a prominent psychiatrist, Dr. Weiss, and his young patient 'Catherine', who undergoes past life regression therapy sessions revealing detailed accounts of her past lives under hypnosis. Through these sessions, the book explores themes of reincarnation, spirituality, and the afterlife, offering readers a unique perspective on the mysteries of existence. The writing style is engaging and easy to read, drawing readers into the compelling narrative of personal transformation and spiritual discovery.
She was visibly out of breath. For the previous twenty minutes she had been pacing the corridor outside the Department of Psychiatry offices, trying to convince herself to keep her appointment with me... 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven' by Mitch Albom follows the journey of Eddie, an 82-year-old man who dies trying to save a little girl. In heaven, he meets five people who demonstrate that his life had more meaning and impact than he had realized. Through these encounters, Eddie learns valuable lessons about interconnectedness, the importance of every life, and the hidden influences people can have on one another. is described as a heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the deeper meanings behind our actions and relationships.
The writing style of the book is often praised for being quick, easy to read, and engaging. Readers appreciate the creative premise, the emotional depth of the characters, and the way the narrative prompts reflection on one's own life and relationships. While some find the book to be light and lacking in substance, many readers are drawn to its themes of interconnectedness, redemption, and the idea that every life has a purpose and impact on others.
THIS IS A STORY ABOUT A MAN named Eddie and it begins at the end, with Eddie dying in the sun. It might seem strange to start a story with an ending. But all endings are also beginnings. We just don’t...Irvin D. Yalom's book 'Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death' delves into the exploration of mortality and the fear of death. Through a combination of personal experiences, patient stories, literature, and philosophy, Yalom offers solutions to help readers alleviate their death anxiety. The book is described as a blend of psychology, philosophy, and practical advice, encouraging readers to confront their mortality and live a more fulfilling life. Yalom's writing style is praised for being engaging, conversational, and thought-provoking, making the heavy topic of death approachable and enlightening.
Self-awareness is a supreme gift, a treasure as precious as life. This is what makes us human. But it comes with a costly price: the wound of mortality. Our existence is forever shadowed by the knowle...- #9
Save:'Advice for Future Corpses (and Those Who Love Them): A Practical Perspective on Death and Dying' by Sallie Tisdale is a comprehensive and compassionate exploration of death and dying. Tisdale challenges societal attitudes towards death, emphasizing the importance of caring for the dying with love and understanding. She delves into the practical aspects of preparing for death, discussing topics such as hospice care, grief, and the dying process in a straightforward and insightful manner. Through a blend of practical advice and philosophical reflections, Tisdale guides readers through the complexities of facing mortality with grace and acceptance.
Tisdale's writing style is a mix of practicality and wisdom, offering a comforting and informative approach to a difficult subject. Her narrative is both intimate and informative, drawing from personal experiences as well as professional expertise in palliative care. The book not only provides practical guidance on preparing for death but also encourages readers to contemplate the deeper existential aspects of mortality, making it a valuable resource for those seeking a more enlightened perspective on the end of life.
Right now: imagine dying. Make it what you want. You could be in your bedroom, on a lonesome hill, or in a beautiful hotel. Whatever you want. What is the season? What time of day is it? Perhaps you w... 'From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death' by Caitlin Doughty is a journey exploring death rituals and customs from various cultures around the world. The author takes the reader on a thought-provoking exploration of how different societies deal with death, shedding light on the funeral industry and the need for more respectful and personal approaches to the end of life. Doughty's writing style combines humor, compassion, and empathy, making the heavy topic of death more approachable and engaging for readers.
The book delves into the author's travels to countries like Mexico, Indonesia, Japan, and the United States, where she uncovers unique funeral practices and traditions. Through poignant stories and vivid descriptions, Doughty challenges the Western perspective on death, urging readers to consider alternative ways of honoring the deceased and coping with mortality. By blending personal anecdotes with cultural insights, the book invites readers to reflect on their own attitudes towards death and contemplate the significance of rituals in the face of loss.
