Touched by the loss of a loved one or friend, the grief can be lonely and bewildering. Filled with compassion and sound practical advice, this insightful book helps not only those who are going through the grieving process, but also the families, friends, and professionals who want to reach out to the bereaved. With interviews and personal narratives, this guide explores all types of grief and loss: the death of a parent, spouse, child, sibling, friend, or domestic partner. Loss through illness, stillbirths, miscarriages, homicide, and suicide are also discussed. An important chapter on AIDS addresses the pain of society's reaction to the disease in addition to the personal anguish of loss. This is a companion on this sobering journey. Explaining the stages of bereavement, it shows how we can "reach the other side" of grief. Included are excellent tips and advice on how friends and health care professionals can help those who are grieving. A final chapter on resources offers advice on locating support groups along with lists of national and regional organisations. This essential volume speaks to each of us in a deeply personal and sensitive way.

Marguerite Bouvard is a resident scholar with the Women's Studies program at Brandeis University.