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

Will Schwalbe Dear Carolyn:
I'm so terribly sorry to hear about the death of your dear father and that it happened so recently. This must be such a sad and difficult time. My thoughts are with you. I'm so touched that you wrote me, and also so moved to learn that your father wrote two family history books in his last months -- and that you were able to format them and help with the research. What a great legacy.
It's such a powerful question you've asked. I would definitely recommend THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING by Joan Didion, as it's really a book about grief. I always always find that Anne Lamott comforts and inspires me: HELP, THANKS, WOW and STITCHES are two wonderful titles. And there is so much great poetry: As you know from my book, I'm a huge fan of Mary Oliver. Also William Stafford and John Ciardi.
I hope some of these help you in the same way that they've helped me. Again, my thoughts are with you and I send my deep condolences.
Will

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