Book Review: How To Carry What Can’t Be Fixed: A Journal for Grief

By Lisa Florjancic MA, LSW
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“Grief isn’t a problem to be solved; it’s an experience to be carried”, quotes Megan Devine in this 2021 follow up book from It’s OK That You’re Not OK. In the introduction to How to Carry What Can’t Be Fixed, the author guides you through how to navigate this journal and your grief. This book/journal is divided into 3 parts, each with its own chapters. Each chapter validates the “hard road” of the grief process and shares useful information about the grief journey. The chapters offer creative activities and journaling prompts to help the reader explore their thoughts and emotions. These activities also help the griever find ways to interact with others while grieving, as well as finding your true support system. I found it very helpful that Devine offers examples throughout to help assist those who have never had the opportunity to journal before. 

How to Carry What Can’t Be Fixed is a wonderful book combining journaling and a discussion of experiences of grief. Devine does a nice job talking about grief and validating possible feelings the reader may have. With its “one line” reminders to take care of yourself and a resource page at the end of the book, there is much for readers to benefit from. As the author says, “This book will encourage you to write, draw, scribble, and explore as you find ways to live alongside loss”.    

Books reviewed by our team can be found at your local library or purchased online or from local bookstores.

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