‘Years ago he wrote “no death notice.” This is a life notice.’ To me, this shortest of obits perfectly captures the spirit of A Death in the Family: Stories Obits tell. Because this book is not about death, not really. It is mostly about life and the meaning of life, from the perspective of the deceased and that of those left behind. While some obituaries poignantly emphasize what mattered most to the departed (The best surprise of my life was the reunion with my son, who I gave up for adoption many years ago and who called my brother in British Columbia), others highlight with great humour how loved ones conveniently rearrange meaning when one is no longer around to object (He is reunited with his beloved first wife. Predeceased by his second wife.)
A Death in the Family: Stories Obits tell is a book of musings; with the author’s own life as subtle filigree, it offers a unique and privileged vantage point on human nature with all its quirks, longings and unpredictability. Within its pages lie thousands of lives distilled to their sheer essence of striving or laziness, love or resentment. It is up to the reader to glean in all this wealth what best suits the soul: laughter, insight, compassion or wisdom.

- Rachel Thibeault, Ph.D. FCAOT, O.C.

In Death in a Family: what obits tell, the mourners, whether family, friends, or even themselves while still living, express sentiments ranging from heartfelt to dutiful, from earnest to laugh-out-loud funny. Donna McCart Sharkey, with insight from her own deep experiences of mourning, has gathered a fascinating collection of obituaries from one Canadian newspaper over the last several years, choosing telling excerpts that reflect the characters, origins, activities and accomplishments of the deceased. Their words reflect the deep-seated need to authenticate the lives of their loved ones, and read separately, or according to theme, inspire us to reflect on the variety and diversity of human experience.

- Barbara M. Freeman, PH.D., media historian