Abby

Abby asked Will Schwalbe:

I was hoping you might recommend a book (or books)? There are lots of books out there about coping with loss, but most seem centered on the loss that comes with the death of a loved one. I'm looking for recommendations for books (fiction or non) that explore different kinds of loss--loss that comes from disappointment and major life change or having to give up certain dreams or ideas you may have had for your life.

Will Schwalbe There's a book that I absolutely love called THE BOOKSHOP by Penelope Fitzgerald. It's a gentle novel, with comic elements, but really at its heart a reflection on disappointment and having to give up on dreams. I think it might be just the book that will speak to you now. If you read it, let me know what you think! I actually almost wrote a chapter about it for BOOKS FOR LIVING.

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Bernie Walsh

Bernie Walsh asked Will Schwalbe:

I was gifted your book over three years ago as a gift from a book lover. It was just as my Step Father was coming out of a 7 1/2 year remission from lung cancer and was given the news that it was back with a vengeance. When read your book he had passed on, I felt his presence in your memories of your mothers zest for life. My mother was devistated and gave up reading. Book suggestions to share with survivors?

Carolyn

Carolyn asked Will Schwalbe:

Hi Will, my dear father Murray died 10th July- last week. It was a journey similar to you and your mum, except he wrote two family history books in the last six months and I formatted them and helped research. The question is.... I now have time to read and look after myself. What books would you suggest at this stage of grief? Regards, Carolyn

Mary Ann

Mary Ann asked Will Schwalbe:

I met you when you visited Blue Willow Bookshop in Houston before the pandemic. I told you about how your book "The End of Your Life Bookclub" moved me as I had just lost my mother, an English professor, to ALS. You autographed my book, "in memory of Nora." I just placed an order for your newest book and can't wait to read it? Thank you for enriching my life and for giving me solace in my grief. Mary Ann Balock

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