Books
For Adults:
A Time to Mourn, A Time to Comfort by Ron Wolfson
Jewish Insights on Death and Mourning Edited by Jack Riemer
Through a collection of writings on Jewish mourning customs and healing, Riemer demonstrates that the Jewish tradition offers much to those who seek help in time of need. The essays are written by a variety of individuals; contributors range from members of the Jewish Orthodox tradition to members of the Jewish Reform movement.
The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning by Maurice Lamm
Written by Maurice Lamm, a rabbi of one of the most popular synagogues in the United States, this book provides readers with comprehensive information about traditional Jewish mourning rituals and customs. Lamm primarily covers Ashkenazi mourning customs commonly practiced in the United States.
The Orphaned Adult: Confronting the Death of a Parent by Rabbi Marc Angel
Rabbi Marc Angel’s intriguing text discusses how adults can cope with and come to terms with losing one parent or both. The narrative touches on a topic not often discussed in a straightforward manner.
When A Jew Dies: The Ethnography of a Bereaved Son by Samuel C Heilman
Samuel Heilman's book provides readers with a well-thought-out ethnographical narrative that touches on his personal experience with Jewish mourning as well as the historical origins of Jewish mourning customs and traditions. Heilman, a professor of sociology at Queens College of the City University of New York, also explores various aspects of Jewish mourning, including the preparation of the body, the transitional period between the death, the burial and the shiva.
Why Me? Why Anyone? by Rabbi Hirshel Jaffe, James Rudin and Marcia Rudin
When Hirshel Jaffe, a rabbi and avid runner, was diagnosed with a type of leukemia, he was understandably stunned and unsettled. A physically active New York native in his late forties, Jaffe found it difficult to come to terms with his diagnosis and illness. Together with James and Marcia Rudin, Jaffe created a narrative of his personal experiences, emotional journey and time in remission.
Why Me? Coping with Grief, Loss, and Change by Rabbi Pesach Krauss
Rabbi Pesach Krauss’s text provides anecdotes and narratives that help to understand the many elements of Jewish mourning. The anecdotes touch on the families and individuals that Krauss has counseled throughout his career.
When Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner
Rabbi Harold Kushner tackles the universal question, “Why me?” in his New York Times best-selling book. After coming to terms with his young son's terminal illness, Kushner decided to put his thoughts, experiences and questions into words. The thought-provoking and well-written text can be a useful resource for individuals of all faiths.
To Begin Again: The Journey Towards Comfort, Strength, and Faith in Difficult Times by Naomi Levy
For Children:
The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life For All Ages by Leo Buscaglia
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Bianco
Barclay and Eve: Sitting Shiva by Karen Carney
Water Bugs and Dragonflies by Doris Stickney
The Saddest Time by Norman Simon
Sad Isn't Bad by Michaelene Mundy