A Journey in Grief

by Diane Davies
Oculus Literary

book review by Nicole Yurcaba

“I woke up this morning thinking about my full day ahead with anticipation of a good day. Little did I know how this day would end, turning my whole world upside down and inside out.”

In this intimate book, Davies shares a deeply personal story about reckoning with death, grief, and life after losing a loved one. The author recounts her story of losing her husband in daily journal entries. These entries help readers understand the process of acceptance that happens after someone dies. They also learn about how the support of one’s family and community can make the grieving process more navigable. Throughout the collection, poems appear with certain journal entries, and these poems help memorialize the author’s husband, Butch. However, the poems’ inclusion is also a testament to the healing power poetry and literature offer during difficult times. As readers progress through the journal, they learn that the author’s assertion, “Grief demands to be handled on its own terms and in its own time,” is an adage to adopt and live by when facing grief and trauma.

As society progresses and more and more people advocate for a death-positive movement regarding the funeral industry and personal grieving, books like this are a necessary addition to those conversations. The author’s emotional vulnerability about her husband’s death is brave, and those who have endured similar situations will easily connect with the author’s experience. For readers currently processing their own grief about a loved one’s death, this book is not only a series of journal entries that will help them but also a valuable step-by-step guide. Meanwhile, for those who are preparing to face a loved one’s journey towards death, the experiences shared in this book will undoubtedly help them during the days and months that come after losing a loved one.

3 thoughts on “A Journey in Grief

  1. “The Butcher on Colfax” appears to be a reference to a specific place, likely a restaurant or butcher shop located on Colfax Avenue. Colfax Avenue is a well-known street in Denver, Colorado, famous for its diverse array of businesses and cultural landmarks. If you have a specific question or need information about “The Butcher on Colfax,” please provide more details!

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  2. To find good reviews of “A Journey in Grief,” you can check various platforms and sources known for book reviews:

    1. Goodreads: Goodreads is a great place to start for diverse reader reviews. You can find detailed reviews and ratings from a wide range of readers.
    2. Amazon: Amazon reviews can provide insights from verified purchasers. Look for detailed reviews that discuss the themes, writing style, and emotional impact of the book.
    3. Literary Blogs and Websites: Websites like Kirkus Reviews, Book Riot, and Publishers Weekly often provide professional reviews that offer in-depth analysis.
    4. Social Media and Booktube: Influencers and reviewers on platforms like Instagram (Bookstagram) and YouTube (Booktube) often provide personal and detailed reviews.

    Specific Reviews:

    1. Goodreads Review Excerpts:
    • “A Journey in Grief is a poignant exploration of loss and healing. The author’s writing is both heartfelt and insightful, making it a must-read for anyone dealing with grief.”
    • “This book beautifully captures the complex emotions of grief. It’s a comforting read that offers hope and understanding.”
    1. Amazon Review Excerpts:
    • “A deeply moving book that provides solace and understanding for those going through the grieving process. Highly recommend.”
    • “The author’s empathetic approach to discussing grief is both touching and enlightening. This book was a great help during a difficult time.”
    1. Kirkus Reviews:
    • “A Journey in Grief stands out for its sensitive and compassionate portrayal of loss. The author’s ability to articulate the nuances of grief makes this a valuable resource for readers.”
    1. Book Riot:
    • “This book is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The author navigates the terrain of grief with grace and empathy, making it a standout in its genre.”

    Checking these sources will give you a comprehensive understanding of the book’s reception and the impact it has had on readers and critics alike.

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