This book is one of the best books I have ever read on the subject of a loss of any form. I first stumbled on it in my twenties when I had lost a relationship and it was enormously helpful. It is very readable which is so helpful when you are mired in sadness. One of the most valuable pieces of advice the book included was the up and down, zig-zag pattern that getting over a loss can follow. While it seems like common sense now, at the time it was a radical concept to me. I thought that you just passed through stages of grieving in a linear fashion. The idea that I would be knocked on my feet again after doing well for a bit was extremely helpful because I realized that it was part of the process. I have read this book many times. I always learn something new from it. I have also given this book to many friends who have lost a relationship or a loved one through death. It has the right blend of sensitivity and a light touch. It lets people know how much I care, without burdening them with a difficult and heavy book to read.