DYING is a guide to not only dealing with the death of loved ones, but an exploration of facing one"s own death. It is a book designed to amplify and challenge one"s own perception of both the dying process and death itself, in order to allay fears, help one find a more loving and rewarding experience, and to build a richer spiritual foundation. It is a practical book that focuses on bringing about honest and open communication between the dying and one"s family and friends, a book that ranges from the challenging and painful aspects of bereavement, to the everyday choices of pain alleviation, hospital stays, alternative treatment, financial problems, funerals, and caring at home for the terminally ill. Throughout the book, Dr. Shepard utilizes not only the perceptions of sages throughout the ages, but his own interviews with both dying patients and their families which are both moving, comforting, and enlightening.