Book Review: Reflections on Lives Lost: A Journey through Suicide, by Grace Purcell
/There are many books that have been published on the subject of suicide bereavement. Cumbria Suicide Bereavement Support has partnered with Cumbria Libraries to develop a comprehensive collection, available to buy on our books page. Barrow-based support group facilitator Emily reviewed “Reflections on Lives Lost: a Journey through Suicide” by Grace Purcell.
Reviewed by:
Emily, whose partner, the father of their four then-teenage children, took his own life in 2008.
Plot Overview
A very slim little book split into two parts. The first part is written by Nelson, the author’s fiancé, who was writing before his death as a way to work through his depression. The second part is written by his fiancé, Grace Purcell following his death. She reflects on her journey from despair to acceptance, and on the aftermath of her loss.
Strengths
Its very honest, and very sad, but is also a story of love, kindness and hope for the future.
Weaknesses
This book tells just one persons story. Having lost my partner myself I found much in it both recognisable and reassuring, but this may have been in part due to me have so much in common with the author when it comes to this event.
Emily’s star rating
“I found much in this book both recognisable and reassuring”
Recommendation
This is a beautifully written book that attempts to break the taboo around suicide, whilst remaining an uplilfting story of the search for peace.
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