Our February Books for Grief – Upcoming Releases

Experience the expanded edition of Good Grief, featuring over forty new poems, from bestselling poet Brianna Pastor.

Upon releasing her self-published collection, Good Grief, Brianna Pastor was overwhelmed by the flood of support from readers who echoed, “Yes, me too.” Delving into themes of identity and navigating through emotional turmoil, including grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression, this collection serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking solace and healing.

Throughout their adult lives, Sloane and Russell were inseparable, navigating the intricacies of office politics, the literary scene, and the ever-changing landscape of New York City together. However, their dynamic shifts when Sloane’s apartment is burglarised while Russell is still alive, leaving her stripped of not just her prized possessions but also her sense of security.

Tragically, Russell takes his own life exactly one month later, catapulting Sloane into a tumultuous journey to find closure amidst the chaos. As she grapples with questions of family and ownership, against the backdrop of a city reeling from the pandemic, Crosley’s narrative unfolds with brutal honesty, dark humour, and profound empathy.

In “Grief Is for People,” Crosley defies the conventions of traditional grief memoirs, delivering a gripping and unexpectedly suspenseful exploration of friendship and loss. This book challenges readers to confront their preconceptions about mourning while offering a poignant reminder to embrace life even amidst profound sorrow.

In “Grief’s Alphabet” by Carrie Etter, the poet embarks on a poignant journey through mourning, crafting a haunting elegy for her mother that defies the limitations of language. Structured both chronologically and alphabetically, the collection traces the narrator’s life from adoption to the profound loss of her mother, exploring the mundane yet heart-wrenching tasks of sorting belongings and arranging the funeral. The final section navigates the aftermath of grief, exploring the enduring process of mourning, culminating in the titular poem.

Etter’s collection tenderly captures the intricate bond between mother and daughter, offering a raw yet delicate portrayal of love intertwined with sorrow. Through lyrical prose, “Grief’s Alphabet” honours the complexities of grief while celebrating the enduring power of love amidst profound loss.

“Conscious Grieving” by Claire Bidwell Smith offers a fresh perspective on navigating loss. Through personal experience and professional insights, Smith introduces the concept of grieving consciously, empowering readers to engage with their grief for healing and transformation. Presented in concise reflections, the book guides readers through the stages of grief with compassion and intention.

In “As Long As You Need,” J.S. offers a compassionate and thorough exploration of grief, unravelling its various dimensions—spiritual, mental, physical, and relational—while providing nurturing self-care and soul-care strategies.

Drawing from years of experience as a chaplain in a hospital trauma center, J.S. challenges societal pressures to rush through grief and instead advocates for a guilt-free and patient approach to healing. He acknowledges the diverse narratives of loss, from faith crises to loss of identity and connection, offering empathy and hope to those struggling with their grief journey.

With wisdom gleaned from diverse encounters in hospital settings, J.S. debunks common myths about grief, encourages a deeper engagement with the grieving process, and affirms the uniqueness of each individual’s experience. Through his book, he extends a comforting reminder: amidst life’s frenetic pace, grief deserves the time it needs to be honoured and navigated with care.