Review by: Julie Clayton, a reviewer for the New Consciousness Review

 “One of the chief reasons we have so much anguish and difficulty facing death is that we ignore the truth of impermanence…” Sogyal Rinpoche

"This is the most genuine, information-rich, readable, and hopeful treasury of reflections on living and dying I have had the pleasure of reading, written by a seasoned hospice counselor with the melodic name of Maria Dancing Heart, whom I suspect is actually two parts angel and one part spiritual counselor/hospice worker. Like the author’s moniker, the poetry, stories, prayers, meditations, resources, sample teachings, inspirational readings, and support for the “last adventure of life” in these pages dance with love and compassion—and always reframing the experience of death to one of transformation.

"Although the author considers herself a Christian, her religion is a broad and inclusive spirituality. In the introduction she describes how she came to write this book saying, 'I am learning that the spiritual journey is about opening up to love and to our inner guidance. Some religions and denominations seem to be better able to help people awaken to their spiritual nature. However, in the end, it is not our religion, but the full understanding and acceptance of our true essence that will save or heal us. It is through the way we live our lives every day—through our love and service, our joy and understanding—that we will heal ourselves and the world.'

"If there were a master manual for living, this book would be first on the required reading list."

Review by: Dr. Jerry Benjamin, a retired pastor and teacher, a certified counselor, and a trained grief counselor

"The fine annotated bibliography of this book illustrates the writer’s intention to put excellent resources into the hands of the reader. Throughout the book, quotations ranging from the Dalai Lama to housewives, from clergy and psychologists to health-care aids, add weight and charm to the honest facing of the last process of life.

"Hiding from the reality of approaching death is a relatively new phenomenon in our world. Previously, people died at home, funeral visitation was done in the home and the funeral itself was in one’s familiar church or synagogue. Now we die away from home and funerals are held, if at all, in the pink lighted “funeral parlors” that serve to cushion the reality.

"However, research and experience indicate that facing the pain openly throughout the dying process is a kindness to the patient and brings quicker healing to the bereaved, although the pain remains real. Dancing Heart provides non-technical help in dealing with slow or sudden death. Her choices of spiritual and religious materials are encouraging and enlightening. The great scholar, Rabbi Abraham Heschel tells, 'Just to be is a blessing, just to live is Holy.'  Art historian, Sister Wendy Beckett tells us, …beauty is essentially the presence of God.'  But one need not believe in any orthodox god to profit from this book. The healing comes from wisdom that is available to all.  She offers us wisdom from Eastern and Western traditions, from clearly religious and openly non-religious sources. Medical Director, Sheila Cassidy says, 'Work with the dying requires, not only great sensitivity and patience, but a robust and earthy sense of humor, for when you are in the business of caring for those whose bodies and minds are literally disintegrating, tragedy and farce are intertwined.'

"The healing professional, the doctor, pastor, teacher or nurse; the child or parent, the friend or neighbor can use this fine book for self-help or for help to others. I expect to use it for years to come."