We need to talk about death. In an age in which dying has become medicalised, can we really see death as an opportunity, both for us and for our loved ones? How can we prepare ourselves for the ending of our lives?
Dying Well is my practical and down-to-earth guide on how to approach the final years, months and days of one’s life. I focus in particular on the medieval documents called ars moriendi — drawing on old wisdom to relearn the the art of dying well and dying faithfully.
This work seeks to offer clear direction, warm reassurance and confidence in the One who has already conquered death.
It is a companion volume to Right To Die?, an earlier book which engages with the debate around assisted suicide and euthanasia.
Written primarily, but not exclusively, for a Christian audience, this book refuses to be pigeonholed. It is a fascinating smorgasbord of information, advice, reflection, and study. It includes very practical advice for the dying, for carers, and for relatives.
Rev Prof Nick Goulding, in his review for the Church Times
This is it. This is the practical, wise, accessible, real, and encouraging book on dying I have wanted both for myself and for the church. It’s been a delightful and challenging read. It’s confirmed a lot of my thoughts on the end of life and its challenges and opportunities. It’s helped me cement some of the practical details of my own end of life plans. It’s encouraged me with Gospel truths, the faith and joy of the personal stories and, at the same time, the permission to grieve and lament as is necessary.
Ruth van den Broek, in her review for Church Society
John Wyatt writes with the heart of a pastor, the knowledge and skill of an experienced physician and the seasoned wisdom of a Christian believer who has walked the journey of grief himself. Deeply helpful and relevant.
Rev John Risbridger
A real treasure: encouraging, heart-warming, informative and sensible. This is a book for everyone that will change souls for the better.
Andrew Sims
What a life-affirming book about dying this is. Full of careful, wise practical advice for the dying, and for all those involved, what emerged is a gentle, unsentimental, moving and liberating gift to us all.
Mark Greene
John Wyatt is no stranger to death or dying. In his work as a neonatal consultant he has daily studied, observed and wrestled with what happens to people towards the end of life. Our Father has his purposes for each of us in our death and faithful dying, and we could ask for no wiser or more honest, practical and compassionate guide.
Timothy Dudley-Smith
It is easy to shrink from the subjects of death and bereavement, but here John Wyatt deals with the issues sensitively and clearly. Timely chapters on how the Lord Jesus faced his death and the joys resurrection remind us that our grief need never be without hope. Whatever brings the reader into the final valley, here is light for the way and ease for the pain.
Dr Janet Goodall
