Books to Read While Grieving

Learning how to keep moving forward after a devasting loss is an ongoing journey. With simple words and comforting advice, books can be a helpful way to cope with feelings of grief. Here are 5 books about grief we recommend:

1. Grief, Loss and How to Cope

This book is a self-guide for difficult times and understanding the common stages of grieving. The authors, Christopher Spriggs and Jess Smallwood, help you explore and process your feelings, supporting you as you find your path through grief.

2. Beyond Words: Grieving When Your Child Has Died

This book features contributions from numerous bereaved parents who share their insights on coping with grief. It provides comforting, encouraging, and informative ideas that may prove beneficial on one’s journey through grief.

3. The Year of Magical Thinking

This book by author Joan Didion is one of the most well-known books about grief. Read about how Didion tries to make sense of life after losing a husband and a daughter a few months apart. The honest writing throughout this book will connect with anyone who has experienced a tremendous loss.

4. Resilient Grieving: How to find your way through devastating loss

New Zealander Dr Lucy Hone released this book in 2017 about life after loss. This research-based book is a helpful guide for people exposed to traumatic situations. After losing her 12-year-old daughter to a car crash, Dr Lucy Hone discovers the power of resilience and how to achieve it.

5. Your Grief, Your Way: A Year of Practical Guidance and Comfort After Loss

This book is perfect for anyone who is struggling to find their way after loss and needs gentle words. A year of daily messages of comfort, each page includes a quote, a short paragraph, journaling prompts, and short meditations.