Never Long Enough (paperback)

In creating this unique book about the end of life, Rabbi Joey Krakoff and artist Michelle Sider drew on their life-long, professional expertise. For Krakoff, this volume reflects lessons learned in many years of counseling families as they wrestle with death, grief and remembrance. Understanding the need we all feel to preserve memories of our loved ones, the book is designed for families and friends to share with each other and then to expand with notes that can be added to the back of the book. The book is perfect to read along with someone who is approaching the end of life-or, to read with mourners after a death. Memories added to the back of the book can range from a person's own reflections they hope will be saved after they are gone-to memories of mourners after a death. Overall, the book is an active invitation for conversation, lifting up memories and preserving the legacy of someone's life. This book is a multi-layered collaboration. Krakoff developed the inspiring, thought-provoking text while studying at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City. He used this text with families, over the years, and then realized that imagery would heighten the experience of healing reflection. As she began working with the rabbi, Sider drew both on her many years as an artist and arts educator-as well as her doctorate in clinical psychology-to produce the final, powerful blend of words and images. As this beautiful book moves from the darkness of grief to the vibrant colors of life, readers are invited to reflect on a loved one's life and legacy.