Creating Meaning in Funerals

“Not only is Creating Meaning in Funerals a great title for a book; it is a theme demonstrated in each chapter. Hoy has written a significant contribution to the field of thanatology and a solid rebuttal of the arguments of funeral critics. Repeatedly, due to the scope of the lit review, as I read—and underlined—I wrote, ‘I didn’t know that!’ I found this a valuable read and will soon re-read it. As they say in Texas, ‘This is a good steer!’” Harold Ivan Smith, DMin, FT, author of Borrowed Narratives: Using Biographical and Historical Grief Narratives With the Bereaving “Dr. Hoy brings a valuable resource to thanatology researchers, practitioners, and educators. Using his signature narrative style, he dives into the value of ceremony and the ways in which bereavement is socially constructed using beautiful, real-life examples. His use of the five anchors from his compass model of grief is superb and links connection to cultural heritage. This book is a must have for everyone working in end-of-life care.” Becky Lomaka, MA, CT, director of grief support and education, O’Connor Mortuary, California, USA “In this essential book, Bill Hoy draws on his extensive research and clinical practice to offer us insight into the many ways people find meaning and direction through the ceremonial anchors of funeral rituals. Along the way we learn about different approaches to funerals around the world. The illustrative stories help us understand the ways ceremonies can help us all as we move through grief after a significant death. It is a book everyone should read.” Janet E. McCord, PhD, FT, professor of thanatology, Edgewood College, Wisconsin, USA