Don't Ask for the Dead Man's Golf Clubs: Advice for Friends When Someone Dies

When a friend suffers the death of a loved one -- mother, father, sibling, spouse or worst of all, a child -- most of us find ourselves most inappropriately tongue-tied. "What do I say; What do I do; How do I handle this?" we ask ourselves in a surge of emotion that can reach the level of panic. All too often, our response is to say, do and handle nothing at all, leaving the bereaved in isolation and ourselves tormented by guilt because we couldn't bring ourselves to be there for them. Now, however, there is a reference manual fit to solve that problem once and for all. Despite the whimsical nature of its title, "Don't Ask for the Dead Man's Golf Clubs" is a treasure trove of very serious advice drawn by Lynn Kelly through interviews with hundreds of people from all walks of life who have suffered the loss of loved ones. Let them tell you what you should or, more importantly, should not say or do to friends in time of grief. Follow their advice and never again will you be at a loss for words when words are most desperately needed. Kelly's effort is more than a book; it is a public service.

It is an exceptional book on helping others in time of need. It beautifully and wonderfully illustrates a powerful message on how to support and help those who have lost a loved one. It is a handy book to keep for all seasons, and can always be used as a guide or reference.

Thank God somebody finally wrote a book about this. I found this book to be extraordinariliy meaningful. It helped me get through a very tough time -- my friend's father committed suicide and I wanted to help her, but I didn't know what to do.The book, which I recommend to anyone who has ever felt awkward in trying to help a friend cope with loss, offered real suggestions from people who have been there. It was friendly and practical and I appreciated that.A compilation of about 200 people who have delt with a death, the book packs punch and drips in credibility. It's most definitely a must read for anyone who wants to help a friend.

Lynn Kelly's new book copes with how to comfort a grieving adult or child. It is filled with helpful suggestions that come straight from the hearts of those who have lost someone dear to them. I recently lost my father to Alzheimer's desease. As one of many who has had to either experience personal grief or comfort another, I found this thoughtful book to be extremely beneficial.