Essential Reading for End-of-Life Planning

Essential Reading for End-of-Life Planning

Essential Reading for End-of-Life Planning

end of life planning book

By Emma Granquist Houghton

Explore our curated summer reading list on end-of-life issues, grief, and dying. Gain guidance, comfort, and practical advice from these powerful reads.

As the summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to finally delve into the books piling up on the ever-growing to-read list. In honor of National Make a Will Month this August, we’ve curated a special selection of books that delve into themes of death, dying, and grief. The more we can share our personal stories and learnings about end-of-life issues, the more we can encourage others to reflect on and discuss their own wishes.

Nothing to Fear

Author: Julie McFadden (Hospice Nurse Julie)

In “Nothing to Fear,” hospice nurse Julie McFadden offers a compassionate and deeply human account of her experiences with patients in their final days. McFadden, widely known as Hospice Nurse Julie on TikTok, shares moving stories that illustrate the beauty and peace that can accompany the end of life. Her book is a testament to the importance of discussing death openly and finding comfort in knowing what to expect.

The Day I Die

Author: Anita Hannig

In “The Day I Die,” Anita Hannig offers a profound exploration of medical aid in dying. Through deeply personal stories, Hannig sheds light on the experiences of individuals choosing to end their lives on their own terms. Her book provides a thoughtful perspective on autonomy and the meaning of a good death, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting end-of-life choices.

A Year of Magical Thinking

Author: Joan Didion

Joan Didion’s “A Year of Magical Thinking” is a poignant memoir detailing the year following the sudden death of her husband, John Gregory Dunne. Didion’s exploration of grief is raw and eloquent, capturing the surreal nature of loss and the struggle to find meaning amidst chaos. Her candid reflections provide solace to those who have experienced similar losses, affirming that while grief is a deeply personal journey, it is one that we need not navigate alone.

A Beginner’s Guide to The End

Author: BJ Miller, MD & Shoshana Berger

“A Beginner’s Guide to The End” by Dr. BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger is an essential manual for living life with a deeper awareness of its finite nature. The book combines practical advice with compassionate insights, guiding readers through the medical, emotional, and logistical challenges of dying. Miller, a renowned palliative care physician, and Berger, an expert in compassionate communication, offer a holistic approach to end-of-life planning that is practical and humane.

Medical Aid in Dying: A Guide for Patients and Their Supporters

Author: Lonny Shavelson, MD

Dr. Lonny Shavelson’s “Medical Aid in Dying” is a comprehensive guide that addresses the legal, ethical, and emotional aspects of medical aid in dying (MAID). Drawing on his extensive experience as a physician and MAID advocate, Shavelson provides clear, empathetic guidance for patients considering this option and their loved ones supporting them. His book is an invaluable tool for understanding the nuances of MAID and ensuring that end-of-life choices are respected and honored. It is also available for free here.

The Art of Dying Well

Author: Katy Butler

Katy Butler’s “The Art of Dying Well” is a practical guide that encourages readers to approach the end of life with dignity, comfort, and meaning. Butler provides actionable advice for navigating the complexities of aging and end-of-life care, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and self-advocacy. Her book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to plan ahead and ensure a good death, framed by a life well-lived.

Want to complement these powerful reads? We’ve created a comprehensive end-of-life planning tool to help you organize and articulate your wishes, ensuring that your preferences are clearly communicated and respected. Download the LifeFile checklist and take a proactive step towards thoughtful and meaningful planning.

This post was last modified on December 14, 2024 12:43 pm