Must-read books about death

Explore the profound themes of mortality, grief, and the afterlife in these essential reads that offer poignant reflections on the inevitable journey we all must face. Delve into the complexities of loss, acceptance, and the human experience of death through the captivating narratives and thought-provoking insights found within these impactful literary works.

Must-read books about death

The Hate U Give: Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a must-read book that explores the aftermath of a police shooting through the eyes of a young black girl named…

Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: Caitlin Doughty, Landis Blair

Smoke Gets in Your Eyes by Caitlin Doughty and Landis Blair is a must-read book that explores the taboo topic of death through the eyes of a young…

When Breath Becomes Air: Paul Kalanithi, Abraham Verghese

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi is a must-read book that explores the author’s journey from being a neurosurgeon to a patient battling terminal cancer. Through poignant…

The Denial of Death: Ernest Becker

The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker explores the concept of human mortality and how the fear of death influences our behavior and society. Becker argues that individuals…

Bridge to Terabithia: Katherine Paterson, Robert Sean Leonard, et al

Bridge to Terabithia is a must-read book that explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the impact of death on young lives. The story follows the unlikely friendship between…

If I Stay: Gayle Forman

If I Stay by Gayle Forman is a must-read book that explores the themes of life, death, and love. The story follows Mia, a teenage girl who must…

All the Bright Places: Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven is a must-read book that explores themes of death, mental health, and love. The story follows two teenagers, Violet and Finch,…

The Graveyard Book: Neil Gaiman, Dave McKean, Margaret Atwood

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean, and with an introduction by Margaret Atwood, is a must-read tale about a boy raised by ghosts in…

Catching Fire: Suzanne Collins

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is a gripping sequel to “The Hunger Games,” following Katniss Everdeen as she faces the aftermath of her victory in the brutal arena….

From Here to Eternity: Caitlin Doughty, Landis Blair

From Here to Eternity by Caitlin Doughty and Landis Blair is a must-read book that explores various death practices and rituals from around the world. Through engaging storytelling…

The Five People You Meet in Heaven: Mitch Albom

The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom is a must-read book about death and the afterlife. The story follows Eddie, a maintenance worker who dies…