Beyond Knowing: Mysteries and Messages of Death and Life from a Forensic Pathologist

Janis Amatuzio M.D. is a specialist in forensic medicine and works as a Chief Medical Examiner. Her book, Beyond Knowing is, as several reviewers have noted, autobiographical in nature; but it relates a number of apparently paranormal phenomena that Dr. Amatuzio became aware of through her work. There are examples of near-death experiences (NDE) as well as apparent interactions with persons who had died. As strange as such events sound, they gain considerably in credibility when seen through the eyes of someone such as Dr. Amatuzio. The stories are realted with attention to detail an sensitivity, making the book quite fascinating to read. It is a fair criticism IMHO that the book is a little heavier on autobiographical material than strictly necessary, but the quality of the stories is sufficient to keep the book interesting. Anyone fascinated by the NDE would find Dr. Amatuzio's perspective different and exciting. Whatever one thinks of spirituality, there is clearly evidence here from a professional that something of that nature happens not infrequently, affecting the lives of all involved profoundly. I'll conclude with Dr. Amatuzio's words: "I have a deep feeling that the whole truth about the immortal mystery of Life is that everything truly is all right. And, of course, that changes everything."

A while back, I enjoyed Forever Ours. This book was an exploration into death. The author, a forensic pathologist, had been encouraged in her profession to be objective and somewhat cold about process. However, her personal experiences taught her otherwise. Far too often people came to her with stories of messages from beyond the grave or premonitions that happened to come true. In this first book, the author essentially wanted to see if these stories had any truth and if she could prove existence of these types of mysterious happenings. By the end of the experience, the author had begun to change. She couldn't equivocally prove the existence of an afterlife. However, it was obvious that something she couldn't explain was happening. In Beyond Knowing, the author writes from a more peaceful place where she is curious about these happenings but no longer questions their existence. She has seen the healing that follows these experiences. It's truly inspiring.

This is an excellent book. The author writes clearly and engagingly. It's easy to read and hard to put down. Some reviewers have complained that much of the book describes the author's path to becoming a forensic pathologist. I think this is a strength. It's an interesting glimpse into a world that most of us never see. If you enjoyed Forever Ours, as I did, I think you'll enjoy this one as well. Happy reading...

Beyond Knowing is a touching account of a doctor's experience with death and those left behind. After death communication is not new, but hearing about it from a respected MD moves it out of the parlor and into the mainstream. Now that takes some courage on her part. Well worth the read... I wish it were a longer book.

This was another very beautifully written book from the author of "Forever Ours". As a medical doctor, I appreciated the humility and dedication that Dr. Amatuzio describes into the making of a physician. In addition, Dr. Amatuzio also explained all of the trials and tribulations of becoming and being a forensic pathologist. Finally, she also wove some very inspiring stories and experiences that encompass her work into this hard to put down book!