Collins combines deeply personal stories of horrific loss with a surprising resilience that nudges readers to learn how to “metabolize” their grief. She draws on her past experience with the performing arts as a way of harnessing emotions “to make the life lessons inherent in grief available to us in our future lives.” Breaking down the many different causes of grief—from chronic illness and death to prolonged absences and the devastation of war—she offers unique healing strategies, such as using dance as a way to mourn or transforming places of trauma with installed art. She writes with wisdom and practicality, pushing back on Western cultural norms like grieving quietly, being “sorry” when waves of grief hit, and keeping a “stiff upper lip.”
In channeling art as a conduit in the healing process, Collins hits on a coping skill that nearly anyone can use, framing the inevitability of grief as a practice—not something to be swept under the rug. That down-to-earth approach—and the guide’s myriad reflection prompts and hands-on resources—makes this a valuable tool for anyone seeking a more holistic relationship with their grief.
Takeaway: Engaging grief resource that embeds the arts into the healing process.
Comparable Titles: Shelby Forsythia’s Your Grief, Your Way, Alessandra Olanow’s Hello Grief.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
