The Other Side of Sadness - by George A Bonanno (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A renowned psychologist argues against our conventional understanding of grief, and argues that we are far more resilient than we realize

"A deep and intelligent book... It's heartening to discover that grieving is not 'work, ' we don't have to be successful at it, and we're stronger than we know." ―Slate

The conventional view of grieving--encapsulated by the famous five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance--is defined by a mourning process that we can only hope to accept and endure.

In The Other Side of Sadness, psychologist and emotions expert George Bonanno argues otherwise. Our inborn emotions--anger and denial, but also relief and joy--help us deal effectively with loss. To expect or require only grief-stricken behavior from the bereaved does them harm. In fact, grieving goes beyond mere sadness, and it can actually deepen interpersonal connections and even lead to a new sense of meaning in life.

Review Quotes

"The Other Side of Sadness is a game changer. Bonanno carefully assembles scientific evidence to show that most of what we thought we knew is just plain wrong. If you want to know the truth about the human experience of loss, there's only one book on the shelf."--Daniel Gilbert, author of Stumbling on Happiness

"The Other Side of Sadness paints a refreshingly new and scientifically-grounded portrait of the grieving process, one infused with positivity, laughter, and enduring bonds. Anyone interested in the emotional nuances of the human condition will value this warm, engaging, and accessible book."--Barbara L. Fredrickson, and author of Positivity

"A deep and intelligent book... It's heartening to discover that grieving is not 'work, ' we don't have to be successful at it, and we're stronger than we know."--Slate

"Bonanno, the most productive and influential bereavement researcher in America today, has changed the scientific landscape in the field of grief and bereavement."--Camille Wortman, Stony Brook University

"Brilliant and moving."--Dacher Keltner, author of Awe

"Fascinating and readable... a sensitive and sensible view of loss."--New York Times

"George Bonanno's ground-breaking research on grief illuminates mankind's profound capacity for resilience, and shows us how to find meaning in life after death."--Jim Whitaker, founder of Project Rebirth

"Perhaps the most renowned grief researcher in the United States... Bonanno's work ... has redefined the science of grief research."--Atlantic

"This is a valuable book for Bonanno's application of the scientific method to a field that badly needs it."--New Scientist

About the Author

George A. Bonanno is professor of clinical psychology and chair of the Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology at Columbia University's Teachers College. He lives in New York City with his wife and two children.