Compassion Summer 2021

Summer 2021 - Compassion | www.tcf.org.uk 16 Book Reviews We are always looking for people who are willing to review books for us. If you can help please contact Mary at library@tcf.org.uk Once More We Saw Stars: A Memoir by Jayson Greene This is the tender, moving story of a father’s shock and horror at the sudden accidental death of his two year old daughter, an only child. He is a confident journalist, living in New York when his world is shattered. He takes us through his experience of being contacted, telling others and the painful next steps including the decision to donate her organs. I found myself in tears as the first chapter reminded me of the impact of the sudden illness and death of my first child. This father then takes you with him, and his wife, beyond the early days. They seek opportunities to make a connection with their child on a spirit journey and they find that helpful. They decide to have another baby and a baby boy is born after two years. The author is a father, and an experienced American writer, sharing his painful personal experience and his book reflects that. Anne McAreavey Am I Still a Mother: Surviving the Cruellest Tragedy Twice by Helen Bouchami This book is outstanding. Having lost my own two sons I found the author’s story very relevant to the way I feel. Sometimes people expect you to forget the children you have lost and this is not possible. Yes, Helen Bouchami is still a mother and so am I. This book has helped me so much. Shirley Murch This book is written by a mother whose two sons died in different ways and at different times. Her first son died from leukaemia and then her second son died from depression and drug addiction after his brother’s death. I thoroughly recommend this book and we have it in our library. Mary Hartley