Practical and inspiring, this respected book helps readers navigate encounters with death, dying, and bereavement. The authors integrate classical and contemporary material, present task-based approaches for individual and family coping, and include four substantial chapters devoted to death-related issues faced by children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. The text discusses a variety of cultural and religious perspectives that affect people's understanding and practices associated with such encounters, and offers practical guidelines for constructive communication designed to encourage productive living in the face of death.