Andrew, You Died Too Soon: A Family Experience of Grieving and Living Again

by E Corinne Chilstrom, E. Corinne Chilstrom

In the most simple, straightforward language, this mother tells the heart's story: the love for her son which had to continue without that son; the embrace of speechless grief and of a murmuring, speaking community; the deep, spiritual events that occurred for her and her family when one son took his life. It is the author's intent that reading this will be an experience which enhances life; one which will help make the encounter with grief not only more bearable, but actually growth-producing. Readers will find here therapy, catharsis, understanding, and even fresh grounding for faith, hope, and love--hope, being at such times and momentarily, "the greatest of these."

140 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1993

Reviews

[Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rather than a read, this was a re-read of when I read this book for the first time in 1997 while engaged in a hospital chaplain's course called CPE. Chilstrom's book was recommended then as a doctor had suicided while we were on the course. Although some of the sources Chilstrom has drawn on are now getting out of date - or need to be re-tested - the book still speaks. Why? Because a mother who is a woman of faith sought to tell the story of their family's grief. She does so with honesty, clarity and an attempt at trying to understand even the ways in which we are ineptly present to people in her condition. Chilstrom deftly describes the experiences, the feelings, even the little mundane things that shaped their grief. All these years on it is still worth a read and worth a revision.

[Annabelle]

This book was a beautifully written account of one family's grieving process after their son's/brother's suicide. Chilstrom covers many topics from the numbness and shock of grief, to the anger felt, the blessings of the community, and the stigmas attached to suicide. She weaves scripture, hymns and poetry into the book as well, underscoring how these people of faith worked through their grief. I would recommend this to everyone since suicide is something that seems to touch us all in one way or another.

[Debbie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful

Amidst the pain and anguish of recently losing my daughter by suicide, a daughter who had, only a few months prior, accepted God's love and atonement demonstrated through Jesus Christ, made Him her friend, and invited His Spirit into her life, it helped.

[Luana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this a while ago, but as I recall, it really brought up some emotion, which wasn't necessarily a bad thing.

[debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me cry, but was also very enlightening and helpful.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-written and heartfelt from cover to cover

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read before giving to a friend. Explores the grieving process from a Christian viewpoint. Very helpful.