Next Chapter: Grief (Fiction)
Grief is a universal emotion which we experience throughout our lives. Here is a list of fiction books which explore the myriad ways we respond to grief and, in turn, may provide a path for our own journeys. Annotations from Kirkus Reviews, unless otherwise noted. Created by The Seattle Public Library Older Adults Program Manager and Readers Services librarians. (Created September 2020)
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Afterlife
In this bighearted novel, family bonds heal a woman's grief.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry
A touching, sometimes-funny, often wise portrait of grief.
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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The Sea
Following the death of his wife, Max Morden retreats to the seaside town of his childhood summers, where his own life becomes inextricably entwined with the members of the vacationing Grace family. (NoveList)
Format: Book
Availability: No Longer Available
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The Story of Arthur Truluv
Making daily visits to the grave of his beloved late wife, Arthur forges unexpected relationships with a nosy neighbor and a troubled teen who dubs him "Truluv" before the trio discovers healing and family together. (NoveList)
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Tell the Wolves I'm Home
There is much to admire in this novel. The subtle insight on sibling rivalry and the examination of love make for a poignant debut.
Format: eBook
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Whiskey & Ribbons
Leesa Cross-Smith's anticipated novel following a contemporary African American family caught in the wake of a tragic police shooting. Set in contemporary Louisville, the death of a police officer is a requiem for marriage, friendship and family. (NoveList)
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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LaRose
Electric, nimble, and perceptive, this novel is about “the phosphorous of grief” but also, more essentially, about the emotions men need, but rarely get, from one another.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Difficult Light
Give the author his own ill-fated summation: “It’s a cruel cliché: the last thing you lose is hope.”
Format: eBook
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Transcendent Kingdom
In a quietly poignant story, a lonely woman finds a way to be less alone.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Benediction
A terminally ill cancer patient is attended throughout his final days by his wife and daughter while the trio contemplates their relationships with an estranged son, a situation that stirs up painful memories for a new next-door neighbor who has recently lost her mother. (NoveList)
Format: eBook
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