Books to read when you’re grieving

Losing someone and yourself can be the most painful feeling in the world. Where do you start to heal, and when does the numbness go away? Does time really heal all wounds? I lost my grandfather just recently, and when I thought I'd moved on, my heart speaks the truth when my memories of him keep me up at night, even after the funeral. Sometimes, grief stays at the back of your mind even after a long time. You'll never really forget about the way they speak, the hands that protected you and the sounds of laughter from their voice.

These novels that I'm introducing forever leave me with heartache whenever I think about them. The journey towards mental health recovery and the rawness of grief comes from all these titles that made me feel something. Get ready to add some book titles to your Goodreads, because these are all just so impactful!

1. All the Bright Places - Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places holds a strong voice for topics of mental health and the process of grieving. Two teenagers that come from different backgrounds, Theodore Finch and Violet Markey - one who is fascinated by death, and another who is heartbroken by her loved one's death. Their two worlds collide when they both happen to see each other at the ledge of the bell tower's school building.

The relationship between Theodore and Violet is something very heartwarming and beautiful - it isn’t about saving one another, but more about accepting those parts of ourselves that we can't come to terms with. Personally, I've watched the show on Netflix too and it really hits you even more when you feel those heartbreaking emotions on screen with the characters. It taught me that there's somebody who is going to let you be yourself despite what others want of you, and you can allow that to be your strength to live and your courage to move forward. 

2. They Both Die at the End - Adam Silvera

What if you know that you'll die today and nothing can prevent it from happening? Meet Mateo and Rufus, two strangers who are told from Death-Cast that today is their last day. Both of them will soon cross paths as they find a partner on an app, Last Friend, for one last adventure - living a lifetime of memories. 

Adam Silvera hits the spot with They Both Die at the End. Get ready for tissues because you're in for a tear-jerker yet hopeful story. A very intense story about life, death, cherishing every moment that counts, and a friendship that is worth so much more. I remembered finishing this book in one sitting because their journey together was so breath-taking and wonderful.

3. You've Reached Sam - Dustin Thao

When you know you're destined to be with the love of your life, had your future planned out but he ended up losing his life tragically, what do you do now? Julie's world has broken apart…refusing to go to his funeral and acknowledge her grief. But who would have thought that she would be able to have a second chance with Sam?

You've Reached Sam is a wild sensation, and Dustin Thao did an amazing job in showing Julie’s struggles to accept the truth and choose between decisions that tear her apart. The book cover is absolutely astounding. I really love how they portrayed Japan with sakura trees and the light-dark contrast between the human world and the other side. 

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I hope these titles have helped you with grief and understanding that there are people around you who will stand by your side.