BEING A WIDOW

by Lynn Caine ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 16, 1988

In three works starting with Widow (1974), the late Caine (who died shortly after finishing this book) wrote of her reactions to the death from cancer of her husband of 17 years, and how her stiff-upper-lip, business-as-usual behavior resulted in serious emotional problems for herself and her two children. ""This is the book I wish I had to turn to when Martin died,"" she now writes--and a fine book it is: practical, compendious, and eminently readable. Caine leads us through the general process of grieving, advising on what priorities to set (unpaid bills) and how to get necessary things done despite disorientation. She lists some nifty meditation and relaxation techniques to cope with sleeping and eating disorders and anxiety attacks: provides guidance on how to help children handle death and grief; lists various deflecting responses for callous remarks or suggestions; provides a brief course in assertiveness training; and suggests techniques for picking up one's social life again. There's also a useful chapter on organizations and publications where help and information can be obtained, and a final section advising families and friends on what to do and what not to do for a grieving widow. First-rate guidance.

Pub Date: Sept. 16, 1988

ISBN: 014013025X

Page Count: -

Publisher: Arbor/Morrow

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1988

Categories: NONFICTION