Death Books

Anne Fontaine has done a wonderful job of bring a real life tragedy to a child's level. Death is often difficult for people to accept, especially when you have been given a time line. Annie learns how important it is to just BE PRESENT with Ocho, no matter what. This book is a MUST to read for anyone who has a pet or has lost a pet or has a friend or relative with a terminal illness.

I love this book. It's hard to describe in words what it teaches. No matter your age, if you have ever loved a pet, this is a story you have to read.

The beginning of the Annie series, Ocho Loved Flowers is a children's picturebook about coping with the loss of a pet. Told from the perspective of young Annie, who loves her feline friend Ocho more than anything, Ocho Loved Flowers follows Annie and Ocho when Ocho gets very sick and the veterinarian tells Annie they have only one more month left to be together. Annie learns how to give Ocho medicine, share the time they have, and say goodbye without words. When Ocho passes on, Annie is sad for a long time and misses her best friend, but eventually she feels sufficiently better to go to the store and get flowers - one set for her, one set in memory of Ocho. Simple color illustrations and discussion questions for young children (such as "Taking care of a cat or a dog is a big responsibility. What are some of the things you have to do to take care of a pet?") round out this gentle and thoughtful picturebook. Highly recommended.

What I liked best about this book is how even though little Annie went through losing her cat, Ocho, she still had the memories of Ocho. Memories cannot be taken away from us no matter if those memories are of a pet, friend, parent, child, grandparent, etc. I think this book is an excellent tool to encourage a child to talk about their feelings when losing someone special in their life.

Although only a small child, Annie teaches us about love. Through her relationship with her cat, Ocho, she learns what one can "do" when death arrives as well as how one can "be." The illustrations are vibrant and beautifully capture the essence of Anne's message. This is a keepsake book. I have several in my office for clients who are experiencing a loss. They appreciate the comfort the book provides.

On That Day by author and illustrator Andrea Patel is a treasure of a book for families, libraries, and especially schools. Through the images of the media almost every citizen of the world became an unwilling participant in the tragic events of September 11, 2001. On That Day is a tribute to the power of goodness in the world that compensates for even the most destructive events. As an elementary school, our students benefit from annual reading of this story to help each young citizen construct meaning and create the history of 9-11. Ms. Patel's selected text engages all listeners and is inspirational to read. Her colorful, collaged illustrations suggest the text's images while offering a spring board for further discussion. As you read the author's notes, you will recognize your own feelings from "that day." This story is not only well crafted, but also timeless, in that it can transcend to related topics of peace, hope, and love. In addition to being a Reading Rainbow selection, On That Day is destine to become an award winner. We wait for future efforts from this writer with great anticipation. Andrea Patel truly is a very gifted author and illustrator who shares her stories brilliantly

This is a wonderful and beloved work. My family lost one of our own in the South Tower on the 104th floor. When I read this book by Andrea Patel, I was deeply moved. She takes an event that is a tragic wound for the world, and transfigures it into a beautiful message of hope. Wonderful not only for children, but for adults. She does this through creative and unique art blended with heartfelt words that evoke soul and healing. Thank you Andrea for such a special gift.

I came across this book a month ago. The words haunt me -- but in a good way... "on that day, the day when the world felt like it broke." That's exactly what it felt like. The author opens a window to the young to help explain the "reactions" of adults and gives perspective. It's a big does of HOPE for children and adults. A beautiful book that stands up beyond the anniversary of September 11th. Timely -- but also destined to be a classic.

When this book was shown to me in its originial copy, i was blown away! I couldnt believe that the author could have envisioned something so amazing! I was astonished by how she captured the tragedy of Sept 11th in pictures and gave words that matched so perfectly in how to teach your child about something so unthinkable. I think that every public school that deals with children from age 3-7 should have this book as a teaching aide in their school. If only people interested in buying this book could have seen the reactions it got from college level students, they would see how much this children's book really helps to understand tragedy. This is a MUST BUY!

As a teacher of young children I was searching for a book about September 11th that was appropriate for their emotional, perceptual and intellectual levels of development. This book was pretty good. In fact, it was the best I found. Then why did I give it only 3 stars ? In her text she wrote "The world...got badly hurt." In fact, the world did not get hurt badly. AMERICA
DID. I currently teach children from Pakistan, Jamaica,
China and Guyana, as well as The United States. Working with international families for two decades, I have learned that Americans often misperceive our tragedies as world tragedies. What happens in America IS important, but other nations experience tragedies that we barely acknowledge. So I "substituted" America where Ms Patel has written "the world" and the parents were satisfied. The children still understood that something very sad and scary happened to Americans that day, they still understood that they have the power to make the world a better place. And they understood that no matter where we live in the world all children (and grown ups) need to have books of hope. Most of the message is excellent, very empowering to children; and the art work is superb. I encourage people to buy the book, with the advance awareness of its American egocentricism.

What an ordeal Matthew has overcome, he shows remarkable faith.
From childhood to adult he has "watched" those heartbeats, because, for him, they often go awry.

Now he sells the devices that help stop sudden cardiac death. A real testament to someone using their own product!

If you liked this book, try another on the same subject, written from the perspective of a spouse (me!) of a sudden cardiac arrest survivor. It's called A HEART TOO GOOD TO DIE: A shocking story of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

I am a Pacemaker/ICD nurse and was recommended this book by one of our reps. I LOVED this book...and read it in a day. I can't wait to share it with my husband and teenage sons, my friends and co-workers, and our church youth group leader. I will definintely recommend it to my patients...and plan on purchasing extra copies just to share.

Matt tells his story with so much clarity...I just felt like I knew him! There is never a hint of self-pity, instead there was a focus on how God has a plan for our lives and by releasing our own plans and fears to God, we can find hope. His faith in Christ is presented in such a way that it couldn't help inspiring believers and nonbelievers alike.

"One Beat at a Time"--simply put is riveting book. The author grabs the reader and tells an incredible story of hardship, uncertainty, and leaves the reader with questioning themselves: what is really important in life?
The manner in which this story is unraveled reveals insight into what it would be like to live each day as if it were your last.
As a physician, this book has provided insight into the daily thoughts, feelings and fears of patients that have similar conditions (implanted defibrillators and being at risk for sudden cardiac death). What is striking is the positive attitude and fortitude the author incorporated into his writing. One cannot help but empathize for him and his family.
I would highly recommend this book to patients, family members, medical care workers and everyone looking to put their own lives into perspective. After reading this book, I feel I learned more about the vulnerability of life and the need to prioritize the way I live.
Without revealing too much, my favorite parts were about how these events in his life psychologically impacted the people around him.
Secondly, one part of the book that struck a chord with me was on Page 34. He states that "None of us lives the perfect life.....we all do things in life that depart from the choices expected.... This part of the book really go to me in that, sometimes people are lead to believe that wrongs committed are reasons for current misfortunes especially in circumstances that are beyond control such as medical events. In my life, this dealt with these feelings I had about an illness that occurred in my mother when I was a child that I felt I caused by my wrong actions.
As a cardiologist "in-training" I verify that this book is very accurate. As a person and a family member, I recommend this book to anyone to "put their own life in perspective".

Thomas E Vanhecke, MD
William Beaumont Hospital

I read this book in 3 1/2 hours. I was hooked from the beginning acknowledgments to the last printed word. I literally could not put it down until I had devoured every word. It was as if Matthew Noble was in my living room telling me the story of his life...and I wanted to hear about it! I was moved to tears at times, laughter at times and always inspired. I realized that my few "struggles" in life could in no way compete with the daily chore of "living" that Matthew had to deal with every single day of his life. He is an inspiration to behold and a man filled with courage, strength, and devotion. I recommend this book as a "MUST READ" to anyone and everyone...period. I promise it will make you evaluate your own life as it did for me. I want to thank Matthew for sharing his amazing life with me and with the world. I look forward to reading anything else he may be working on.

I enjoyed Matthews story of his personal struggle and survival with an early implanted ICD. He has lived with his for over 10 years, and it gives hope to those like me who have just received theirs. I had a massive heart attack at 40, and my ICD gives me and my family the peace of mind to go on living, just as Matthew talks about. This book is good for your soul.

I love this book. It takes a difficult subject and humanizes it. One can now imagine and maybe understand a little what is happening inside an alzheimer patient's brain. This understanding has made difficult behavior easier to tolerate and in some cases prevent. Every care giver should read this book, and every family member.

This book gave me some small insight into what my grandmother, who has alzheimers, must be going through. From the description of why he's afraid of the dark to the small joys of daily life and unquestioning company of his dog, Smith-Henderson has given a treasure to those of us baffled by this disease. My aunt is now using the book for a project in medical school, and I am encouraging my family to read it, so they might also have an idea of what people with alzheimer's face daily.

As the spouse of a man with this horrendous disease, I was very moved by this excellent journal of text and photos which allows one to "see it from the other side" as much as possible. In some moments of clarity for him, I shared excerpts of the book with my husband. His reaction was "he sure knows". Having ordered a copy for everyone in our family, perhaps I helped create the current back order situation! Kudos and thank you to all involved in the process of this book.

I have worked in nursing homes with Alzheimer's patients and received excellent staff training in relating to these people. But nothing equals the insights into the feelings so powerfully shared by Mr. Henderson. I'm giving it to a friend whose spouse has just been diagnosed and will recommend it to professionals still in the caregiving field.

This book is extraordinary if I do say so myself! Cary Henderson is my grandfather. He was diagnosed with AD soon after I was born. I have no memory of him not having it. It has gotten so bad no that a I feel like he is living, but not really here all the way. He is holding on, though. The pictures taken by Nancy Andrews are artistic and creative-wonderfully displayed. My grandma and aunt have put so much work and time in this book and it has really paid off. I am proud of them and think it's great that people can put themselves in someone's shoes that has AD. This book is interesting and will keep your attention until it's over. I reccomend this book to anyone.

The Pit is a wonderful fantasy, rich in detail, Eastern spiritual philosophy, and little archaisms that enhance the imagery. Jim Melvin expresses this story in a well written, easy to read format, and does a great job of breathing life into Triken and its inhabitants. I think he accomplishes what every writer hopes for with a book like this: he left me wanting more.

I picked up Jim Melvin's Death Wizard Chronicles based on the great premise and thoroughly enjoyed the novel. The characters and creatures pulled me into a mystical world unlike any I'd encountered in other Fantasy novels. Great debut.

In a world saturated with fantasy novels, Jim Melvin's The Death Wizard Chronicles shines above and beyond the rest. With a fast paced exciting feel, The Pit caught my interest quickly and held on tight as I traversed the world of Triken!

Jim Melvin steps into the realm of high fantasy authors with the ease of a master. A strong plot, smooth transitions, and fast paced, The Death Wizard is sure to capture the attention of the reader, and not let go long, long after the last page has been read. If you're looking for good old fashioned adventure, an ingredient most new authors forget to include in this genre, then The Death Wizard is a sure bet!

I am not the eloquent writer, but I will try to describe what I feel is the best book I have read since LOTR and IMHO a greater work. The journey that Jim Melvin has started me on is fantastic. I just finished Book One and am waiting on the arrival of Book Two. Just take a moment and peek into any page of this fantastic series and you will be forever enraptured! The characters come to life and Jim captivates you with the most complex detail. You are taken to the land of Triken in mind and in heart! I am a true fan of his work!

i've read all the death dealer books, own all them for several years. they have a special place in my mini-library of roughly 50-75 books. they are one of the series that i continuously reread. like the previous reviews, they are hard to find, but once you acquire them, they (to me) become more precious than gold. i've found all of them in a book store, or have had to order them through this website and barnes and noble. read the books, then you'll look at the new books differently.

This is by far the best epic fantasy I have read since reading Conan thirty years ago. It has everything: It's full of what you'd expect from the old style sword and sorcery novels. It is written well enough to be up there with the best of them, and kept me hooked from beginning to end. After finishing Prisoner of the Horned Helmet, I bought the rest of the books in the series and have never looked back. I envy people with the talent that James Silke has.

I wouldn't say I am person to read fantasy books nor a ficton reader to begin with. My father has a huge collection of books. I was looking through his books one time I saw four books with really cool covers. I was looking at the books to read one for a High School Book Report. So I picked up the first one because of its awesome cover. Read the book in one day! Couldn't put it down. Then I read the 2nd one the next day and so forth till all four were done. It's a shame the books are not easy to come by any more. I was fortunate my dad had already had all four. This is by far the best series I have ever read or will read!

i am a fantasy buff to the max and have read literally thousands of books in the fantasy sci fi genre. i own quite a bit of money and spend the majority of it on books. but one day while looking in a used book store in san antonio texas i purchesed the death dealer series and have not bought another book since. i feel now that no book will ever compare in shear brillance of imagery and wording. James Silke is a true artist and genius. i would do anything to read more books from him. i have tried to purchase the mint condition set of these books but to no avail. and to this day my original set are my most prized possesions. if Mr Silke is reading this please publish more on the tale of Gath of Baal and Robin Lakehair and Brown John. i would seriously do anything to read more stories. i had thought at one time you may write an off branch of the years Gath left Robin between book 2 and 3. but i am afraid not. to anyone looking for the perfect book this whole series is it

thank you, kyle whiting

I am not an avid reader who spends time reading books. I like to do other things with my time. Then one day i was at the library and saw the cover. I said,"I'll get this one." Before you know it I had finished the book in 2 days, no other fantasy books have ever kept me readin like this except for the dragonlance books and so i looked for the 1st and 3rd books in the series to complete my readin but to no avail. All in all this book is fantastic, so if you are looking for a great fantasy novel this is the one to get. Dont take my word for it, read the other reveiws(and the book)and you'll see what i mean.

After reading the first few pages of the heartwarming story,
Purple Love, one of the main messages for the book became evident. Susan Faith emphasized the deep devotion a mother has for her daughter. It was truly beautiful to see the quality time Sarah's mother shared with her. She not only was a teacher to Sarah, but a true friend. Because of their open relationship, it allowed mother and daughter to discuss a variety of difficult subjects such as life and death. As a retired educator, I saw many children suffer emotionally and academically due to the lack of parental attention. Without such a relationship, life and death issues would have been difficult to approach.
This book would be extremely useful to parents and teachers.

"You NEED to read this book, mommy!"
Janyne L.

Purple Love is a sensitive story about a loving relationship between a mother and child that allows open communication. It serves as an excellent basis for family discussions about life, death and memories. Death is a difficult subject, and this book would be very helpful as a begining point. The illustrations are lovely. Faith and Saski make a good team.

In an age that is no longer gilded, Purple Love will become a classic. As families struggle through the destruction of the WTC and the loss of countless lives, Purple Love can step in and be a source of inspiration, closure and hope.

The extraordinary illustrations of Goro Sasaki and the timeless message of Susan Faith will urge your family to take a new look at death . . . but more importantly, a closer look at the miracle of life itself. The loving, trusting relationship of Sarah and her Mother may cause parents to stop. Slow down. Think about teaching life's true lessons. Love. Trust. And, a child's place in the universe.

In "Purple Love" Sarah learns that the cycle of life does indeed go on. As adults, we learn to contemplate a different message to confront the inevitable task of helping our children understand death. Purple Love is just that refreshing vehicle to offer alternatives in discussing life's most difficult subject, with hope and love at the center.

Purple Love is a story that provides comfort to those in mourning by embracing death in the celebration of the circle of life. Susan Faith cultivates the concept of a perpetuating energy that transforms with the passing away of one life form, but dissipates to support and inspire many others. This is a concept deeply rooted in current scientific theory while incorporating Faith's own healing and spiritual thought. A wonderful book that allows the reader grieve, but also provides a spiritual outlet in which to proceed and prosper.

This is a great book. Everyone who is dealing with or has delt with the loss of someone should read this book! It will help them.

this book was great..this book should be read by everyone who has delt or is dealing with death

This book contains 50 eulogies (Rupert Brooke by Winston Churchill, Malcolm X by Ossie Davis, Robert Kennedy by Edward Kennedy, etc.); 42 letters of condolence (Herman Hesse to Thomas Mann, James Michener to his friends, RAF pilot to his mother, etc.); 50 elegies (songs or poems, by Langston Hughes, Emily Bronte, Noel Coward, etc.); and 110 epitaphs from the graves of Thomas Jefferson, T.S. Eliot, Hilaire Belloc and others -- my favorite:
"Here lies Jane Smith, wife of Thomas Smith, Marble cutter./Monuments of the same style, $350."

The selections are touching, and although it would have been nice to have name and location information about the epitaphs, the book is still an eloquent tribute to one of life's most difficult times.

Ms. Harris shows uncommon sensitivity in her choice of authors. I was moved to tears of joy and sorrow on several occasions. Without a doubt Ms Harris's work will rank as one of the most thoughful and provocative volumes of how we, as human beings, deal with grief and ultimately move on.

This is a great book. Everyone who is dealing with or has delt with the loss of someone should read this book! It will help them.

I found it interesting I used the chant nam myo horenge kyo before heart surgery, and surgery was cancell instead I had tests done I"m Ok.
no surgery...I feel great. i did not need it after all...
read it try it thais method works!

Now that I have learned the mantra, I have been able to use it to calm myself during the day when I have free-floating anxiety and at night when my mind starts racing and I can't sleep. It has been another great tool that I have added to my chest of coping devices. This book is a boon to menopausal women like myself.

In this guided manual Mr. Atkins demonstrates the awesome power of Nam-Myoho-renge-Kyo in combating any affliction proving anyone & everyone can benefit from use of this universal Law. The secret is not just to eliminate suffering but in that very suffering is replaced with pure joy. Marty Ward ( "The thing you must do; what you must achieve; is to do the impossible.")ELEANOR ROOSEVELT

Charles Atkins has written another moving and insightful book on the ancient faith of Buddhism as it relates to the practical issues of illness, death, addiction, and emptiness. These are the timeless themes of Buddhist practice and philosophy articulated anew by each generation of practitioners. Atkins, drawing on his extensive practice and life experience, brings alive these ancient teachings for the modern reader. The role of thought and one's inner life in manifesting a life condition of health and well being is treated with particular insight. Though informed enough to offer wisdom to the experienced practitioner, the novice will find a wealth of practical advice on how to develop their own practice.

I have followed author Charles Atkins' blog on fraught with peril (an eclectic Nichiren Buddhist website) for some time, and enjoyed his earlier book, "Modern Buddhist Healing". Atkins has been writing for years, but his recovery from stage 4 Hodgkins Disease using the techniques he outlines in this book sent his work charging off into explorations of healing prayer. Atkins is a firm believer in the power of our lives to heal our bodies, but is not flakey or "woo-woo" in his discussions. For example, he is a strong advocate of seeking out the best medical treatment available - Atkins is not a "faith healer". His work is highly personal and takes his readers on a fascinating tour of his worldview and the role of powerful prayer.

I was sorry to see that Atkins' publisher did not see fit to allow a "search" of this book here in Amazon.com, so I will list some of the Chapters for those readers who are trying to decide if this book is "for them":

The Wheel of Samsara / Birthing; Aging and Illness; Dying and Reincarnation

Your Mind as Your Vehicle Towards Healing

Directing Your Journey - Practical Techniques/ The SOund of Visualization; Affirmations are Crucial; Practical Visualizations; For the Children

The School of Buddhism which Atkins has followed for years posits that we all possess what is called a "Buddha Nature" or pure core. As he writes in the chapter on Meditation and Science: "Because we are all intrinsically divine at the core, our prayers, intentions and affirmations, no matter what kind, resonate with the universe as if ringing a great bell". Atkins has had a lot of success "ringing" his own universal "bell" and wants very much to teach others how they can do it too. I hope the "buzz" on this book will let it reach the hands of those who will be helped by it.

searching for david's heart is one of the best books ever!! it had everything in it, from humor to romance to tragedy to just a story you could relate to on some level. i recommendthis book to everyone-no matter what age you are. after reading this book, you'll be crying because of all the emotions darcy feels. so don't forget a box of tissue when you start reading this! anyways, once you read this, you'll never be able to put it down! this book is the greatest ever!!!

This story happens at Christmas with the falling of white silvery snow, together with feeling of cold but also warm in the bottom of heart. It is a touching and sweet story for everyone to enjoy with. The following is what I want to share with you.

The main character, Darcy, who harshly and severely blaming herself and is under extremely depression because of supposing caused an unforgiving thing. Having fully filled with regret and guilt in deep inside of mind and can no longer make any apologies to someone else is really piteous. You can probably feel in the same way like Darcy when you simply identifies with this character.

The best friend of Darcy, Sam, who always helps and stays with Darcy, can even leave his home to go to somewhere with her. He is so sincere and generous, and he is the one whom Darcy often shares feelings with. Perhaps, he is also the one, who is able to understand more about Darcy.

This book is just like a grateful and meaningful gift for every people to enjoy. Moreover, the comfortably faded painted cover must definitely draw your attention and you probably cannot take off your eyes once started reading.. I really like this story and strongly recommends to everybody. Do read this book and have a hopeful journey with Darcy and Sam now!

This book is the book I was waiting for all my life. I am a book worm and I read a lot of books and none of them have been like this. It made me cry and laugh. The book made me realize that life can be short so don't wast your time on hating people or running from your problems or worry that you have no boobs (for example). This book is awesome and you should read it!

This was an amazing book! I loved it! It was well-written,kept you on the edge of your seat,and was very suspenseful. If you enjoy good books, read this! This book is a story about a girl named Darcy Deeton and her brother David. David is everything to Darcy. But when Jane comes into the storyas David's girlfriend, Darcy gets envious and things go downhill from there. At the end of the story Darcy and her friend, Sam, make friends forever.

Searching for David's Heart is a heartwarming story about a girl, Darcy who is extremely close to her older brother, David. When David gets a girlfriend and starts spending a lot of time with her, Darcy fels left out and jealousy takes over. On Darcy's birthday, David and her get into a big fight. Tragedy then strikes and her brother dies in an accident. Filled with grief and guilt over David's death, Darcy begins a search with her friend, Sam, to find David's heart, which was donated to someone. Darcy wanted, needed, to find David's heart because she wanted to say taht she was sorry and in some way find closure. Searching for David's Heart is a sweet story. I just love the characters on the book since Cherie Bennett did a great job on describing each character and their feelings, that I felt like I really knew them. I love this book so I can say this book is one of my favorite stories!