457 Days:
A Mother's Journey Along Grief's Path
On the first day, Kimberly A. Starr’s world fell apart. On the 54th, she realized even just eating was an uphill struggle. On the 85th, she celebrated her son’s birthday—even though he was no longer with her.
On the 264th day, she tried to make it through Christmas—the first without her son. On the 377th, she started thinking about her own healing process. On the 432nd, she started to let go.
457 Days is Starr’s candid chronicle of these trying, life-altering days and every day in between, starting her journey on the 54th day after her son Tom died by suicide, recording her powerful emotions, relating cherished memories of her son, and expressing regret at the many ways he would never get to experience life.
Starr’s work is an intimate portrait of grief and anguish that will touch anyone with a loved one suffering from mental illness and suicidal ideation. At the same time, it is a celebration of her son’s life and legacy—ensuring that Tom will not be remembered solely for the mode of his death. Starr recounts an entire life of wonderful memories and unforgettable experiences—and her own journey toward acceptance and peace.
What People Are Saying About 457 Days
"The subject of a child’s death, especially by suicide, is a difficult topic at best. The honesty, compassion, and candor expressed throughout the text make this an excellent book for anyone enduring similar circumstances. This is a beautiful, heartbreaking, yet ultimately uplifting read." – Carmen, CreateSpace Editor
"You have written a very moving narrative of your struggle to come to terms with your son’s suicide and your efforts to overcome the tragedy. It will be an inspiring read for people who have lost loved ones." – Penny, CreateSpace Editor
"...Starr put[s] into words the emotions, thoughts, feelings, struggles, questions, and love we have for those who have taken their life. It is a wonderful book for those of us who are grieving the loss of a loved one or for those who know someone who has and are unsure of how to express their grief..." -Marilee L.
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or contact the Crisis Text Line at 741741.