Now on day six, today’s book for grief is ‘One Day’, by David Nicholls – a novel that explores the passage of time and the unpredictability of life.
The story’s reflection on fleeting moments and the deep connections between its characters can resonate with those processing loss, highlighting the value of cherishing memories and accepting life’s imperfections.
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One Day
by David Nicholls
David Nicholls describes reading One Day (2009) as like flipping through a photo album. The novel follows Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, starting with their night together in 1988 (15th July).
The story revisits them each year on the same date for the next two decades. Drawing inspiration from Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, One Day reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the significance of moments that, though brief, are irreplaceable.
Featured Amazon review…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Comedy, relationships, romance and tragedy. Life in a bottle
“I read this book when it was first published and remember that it was better than the film. I wanted to revisit it before watching the new Netflix series. It really is a wonderful microscope on growing up and dealing with relationships and hurdles that life throws up. It is funny in places, infuriating (Dexter), and also tragic.
I very rarely read a book twice or laugh out loud or cry. That’s how good this book is.”
Amazon customers say…
Readers find the book helpful, especially for those new to self-help, offering useful insights into understanding thoughts and everyday challenges. While many appreciate its practical value, some feel it may not hold their interest as much.
Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash
Explore our ‘Books for Grief‘ Hub for more recommendations.
🧠 Understand the ‘Stages’ of Grief
Many people first encounter grief through the idea of “stages,” but the model is often simplified or misunderstood.
Our Stages of Grief page looks at where the framework began, what each stage represents, and how it can support understanding – without suggesting that grief unfolds in a tidy order.
Explore the page to learn:
📘 A clear explanation of what the Five Stages are (and what they’re not)
🧭 Why grief rarely moves in a straight line
🌊 How feelings can rise and fall in waves
🧩 Other grief models that may resonate more with your experience