Suicide

January 1, 2023
Advice from an author who has experienced it herself on surviving the suicide of someone close. Szumski provides a personal look at dealing with the suicide of a loved one. The mother of a teen who died by suicide, she draws on her own experience as well as interviews and written accounts from other survivors. She provides sympathy, encouragement, and sensible advice, encouraging survivors to understand the pain of the suicidal person and to remember them with love. Chapter by chapter, she moves from immediate responses--"How Can It Be?" and "What Happened?"--to the process of grief. She describes ways others often respond to someone who is grieving a suicide and ways that can be more helpful. Finally, she talks about adjustments people make and how they move on, though the grief never really goes away. The writing is direct and straightforward, including a variety of examples. Quotes from survivors demonstrate the wide range of people's reactions and coping strategies. The author incorporates up-to-date statistics and statements from therapists and researchers. Subheadings, pull quotes, text boxes, and stock photographs showing people of different races and ages break up the narrative. The backmatter includes source notes, websites for finding help, and resources for further research. With suicide being the third leading cause of death among teenagers, this is a much-needed addition to the self-help shelf. A brief guide offering solace and helpful guidance. (photo credits, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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February 1, 2023

Gr 8 Up-An intense read about a deeply important subject matter. Unlike most books on the topic, this one is written to help the loved ones who continue to grieve. Szumski lost her son to suicide in 2014. She shares her story, along with several others, to illustrate the feelings a loved one may have after a person dies by suicide. Common feelings of grief and loss, as well as feelings of guilt, looking for answers, the aftermath of the suicide, and the hope of moving forward are explored. Written in an easy-to-read format, this book can be part of a helpful path forward for many readers. Also included are many resources for those struggling with mental health issues and their loved ones. VERDICT A helpful reference guide for collections serving young people.-April Crowder

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