Writing this book may have been cathartic for Joan Didion, but it doesn't offer much to help others who are experiencing grief and loss. This book seemed to come more from her head than her heart. The real pain just didn't make it onto the page. She seemed removed from herself as if she were experiencing the grief at arm's length. I'd like to know the real stuff -- not what she thought but what she felt. That's what really matters when you are grieving.