What to Do When I'm Gone Book Summary

In 'What to Do When I'm Gone,' Suzy Hopkins offers a heartfelt exploration of loss and legacy through the lens of a mother’s love. When faced with her own mortality, she crafts a guide filled with important life lessons, cherished memories, and practical advice. This unique blend of humor and poignancy invites readers to reflect on their own lives and relationships. As each chapter unfolds, Hopkins' relatable anecdotes spark deeper conversations about grief and remembrance. Will you be prepared to leave behind your own personal wisdom?

By Suzy Hopkins

Published: 2018

""Life is a series of moments, and though we may part ways, the love and lessons we leave behind will forever echo in the hearts of those we cherish.""

Book Review of What to Do When I'm Gone

A mother's advice to her daughter--a guide to daily living, both practical and sublime--with full-color illustrations throughout. One sleepless night while she was in her early twenties, illustrator/writer Hallie Bateman had a painful realization: her mom would die, and after she died she would be gone. The prospect was devastating, and also scary--how would she navigate the world without the person who gave her life? She thought about all the motherly advice she would miss--advice that could help her through the challenges to come, including the ordeal of losing a parent. The next day, Hallie asked her mother, writer Suzy Hopkins, to record step-by-step instructions for her to follow in the event of her mom's death. The list began: "Pour yourself a stiff glass of whiskey and make some fajitas" and continued from there, walking Hallie through the days, months, and years of life after loss, with motherly guidance and support, addressing issues great and small--from choosing a life partner to baking a quiche. The project became a way for mother and daughter to connect with humor, openness, and gratitude. It led to this book. Combining Suzy's wit and heartfelt advice with Hallie's quirky and colorful style, What to Do When I'm Gone is the illustrated instruction manual for getting through life without one's mom. It's also a poignant look at loss, love, and taking things one moment at a time. By turns whimsical, funny, touching, and above all pragmatic, it will leave readers laughing and teary-eyed. And it will spur conversations that enrich family members' understanding of one another.

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"Life is a series of moments, and though we may part ways, the love and lessons we leave behind will forever echo in the hearts of those we cherish."

What to Do When I'm Gone

By Suzy Hopkins