Tag Archives: Book Review

“The Thing About Life is That One Day You’ll Be Dead” by David Shields

An author explores the meaning of life and death through data

At 97 years old, David Shields’ father was still a firecracker with a fierce sense of optimism. Shields simply couldn’t explain how a man of that age could retain such vigor for life, and he was determined to figure out … Continue reading

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”Rookery” by Traci Brimhall

A collection of poetry that shows death in its most raw, beautiful form

  Death can feel so ominous — so frightening — lurking in the corners of life with shadow cat’s eyes. I spent much of my younger life interpreting death as something terrible — something to be avoided and never talked … Continue reading

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The Dogs of Babel by Carolyn Parkhurst

With a storyline that intertwines grief and joy, life and death, this book brims with emotion

When I first read The Dogs of Babel, I was probably a bit too young to fully appreciate the nuanced balance of grief and joy presented by author Carolyn Parkhurst. But I recently picked the book up again, and was … Continue reading

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“
Flower Drying With A Microwave” by Titia Joosten

A handy book gives simple instructions on how to dry flowers after a memorial service

I’ve enjoyed the beauty of flowers and their meaning since I was a child. Back in the 80s, I began playing with different fresh flower drying methods. I have a distinct memory of getting a call from my mom after she … Continue reading

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“The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages” by Leo Buscaglia, PhD

A story that helps children understand death as a dignified, even joyful passing

When it comes to story time with your little one, death is maybe the last thing you want to read about (other than Eloise’s adventures at the Plaza for the hundredth time!). You know it’s an important topic to introduce, … Continue reading

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1001 Paintings You Must See Before You Die: Revised and Updated 2011 edited by Stephen Farthing

Caution this book is for the well-studied who possess a fine eye

A friend once said to me “competitions are only as good as the judges,” and so it goes that a book on 1001 Paintings You Must See Before You Die can only be as good as its editor. When I … Continue reading

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