Menu

LIFE AFTER LOSS: REFLECTIONS ON MOMENTS OF GRACE AND COURAGE IN GRIEF

Category: Memoir
Author: Catherine Kenwell
Publisher: Wintertickle Press
Publication Date: June 10, 2024
Number of Pages: 326
ISBN-10: 1989664164
ISBN-13: 978-1989664162

Life After Loss: Reflections on Moments of Grace and Courage in Grief is a deeply personal and relatable collection of stories about experiences of loss, grief, and healing. The author, Catherine Kenwell, has curated diverse contributions from individuals who have faced various forms of loss, trauma, and heartbreak. The book highlights the importance of acknowledging and validating one's loss rather than trying to find a silver lining or diminish it. This approach is echoed throughout the book as contributors share their raw and unflinching experiences. The contributors share their stories of loss and grief, each unique yet resonating deeply with the others. Jason writes about the death of his first wife and the importance of grieving, while Catherine shares her own experience of losing her father during the pandemic. Shekinah's story of grieving her mother is a heart-wrenching account of the pain and longing that can accompany loss. Allana's story of betrayal trauma is a powerful example of the complex nature of grief and the importance of finding purpose and meaning in the aftermath of loss.  

The book is divided into several sections, each addressing different aspects of grief and loss. Part 2, Letting Go and Finding Reminders, explores how loss can lead us to rediscover ourselves and find new meaning in life. Part 3, Loss of Self, is a haunting reminder of how loss can leave us feeling fragmented and lost. Matthew's story of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a sobering prompt of the long-term effects of trauma and loss. His narrative is a powerful example of the importance of seeking help and support in the aftermath of loss. One of the most striking aspects of this book is its portrayal of grief and the many ways it can manifest. Contributors share their experiences of shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. The quote from David Kessler, “Grief will never get smaller. We learn to grow around it,” reminds readers that grief is a lifelong process that requires patience, self-care, and compassion. Kessler's statement is echoed throughout the book as contributors share their stories of healing and transformation. Life After Loss is a book about the human capacity for resilience and transformation. Crafted in voices that are unique and compelling and in a compassionate tone. This book is filled with insight, a gift of love.

Reviewed By: Sarah Harkness

|

Date: February 15, 2025

Featured

Weekly Top Picks

Hand-picked reviews our authors and readers are loving right now

Non-Fiction Books

The Book Commentary

The Read Down

Essays, author interviews and publishing advice for curious readers and writers.

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
Bestsellers

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them

By Romuald Dzemo  · 

For avid readers, being aware of these trends can enhance your reading experience, broaden your horizons, and, let’s be honest, help you sound like a literary genius at your next book club meeting.

Read the article →
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Interviews Aug 10, 2026

Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving

By Sanjay Sabnani

Discover why your brain sabotages success and how to rewire your identity in this ActualizationOS interview on stillness, self-sabotage, and lasting change.

Read the article →