Beyond the darkness A gentle guide for living with grief & thriving after loss

Surprised by Grief podcaster Moll debuts with an openhearted account of coping with her husband's death. In 2019, Moll's husband, Rob, died in a hiking accident, leaving her to raise four school-age children on her own. Moll examines Bible passages and scientific research on grief to tear down such "myths and platitudes" as "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" and instead encourage readers to view grief as a companion: "When we turn to grief and receive her wisdom, we invite God to speak into the most painful places of our lives." The author provides guidance on dealing with the practical considerations that come with the death of a loved one, recommending that readers "wait until you're ready, and do what feels natural to you" when deciding what to do with a dead loved one's belongings. The chapter on parenting after loss is especially helpful, using developmental psychology to reveal how children of different ages process grief. Moll's sagacious advice is well worth the price of admission, and her gentle tone will soothe bereaved readers. Those going through dark times will find this generous, strongly Christian work a welcome beacon of light. (July)

Moll (host of Christianity Today's Surprised by Grief podcast), whose husband died unexpectedly in a hiking accident, has written a tender and beautiful book about the process of grieving and the blessings it can bring. Her writing is compelling and personal, yet never sentimental or oppressive. To read this book is to spend time with a soul lit by the spark of experience. Moll's quietly profound message boils down to the idea that grief is something to be engaged, not avoided. Like the Way of the Cross, it is a fearful path, and yet it is the path that leads to grace. Grief cannot be overcome; it is not the enemy, but a companion; it is a fact that must be integrated into our lives if we are to live truly and authentically, Moll argues. Divided into three sections (preparation for the journey; tools for survival; the path ahead), Moll's book truly is a guidebook to a life and place most readers hope to avoid, even as they know with certainty that they must one day make a home there. Like Virgil for Dante, Moll is a wise and loving guide. VERDICT A book every adult should read. Highly recommended for all libraries.--Herman Sutter