Boston:  Beacon Press, 2005.   160 pp.   $14.00  11 pp refs

Dreams about death and dying are common in many cultures. Kelly Bulkeley and Patricia Bulkley provide their specialized expertise in the area of pre-death dreams and visions, [with their intrepretations for those who are dying.  The authors start their exploration by looking at the common beliefs and themes around death and dreams held by cultures around the world.  This helps to understand the common patterns in dreams that are shared and reflected in the lives of people universally. The authors draw upon experts in psychology, anthropology, neuroscience and evolutionary biology. 

The authorsidentify three main themes with regard to dreams and dying.  The first theme entails a journey, which is metophorical for the dreamers and their lives.  These have a deepening effect, illustrating the importance of the life story of the one who is dying.  The second theme deals with the dreamer meeting a guide for the journey.  This guide could be spiritual or religious, or could be a trusted person, such as a family member or friend.  This trusted person is someone who has already died and is here to offer guidance for the person that is dying.  The third theme deals with obstacles and challenges that the dreamer might encounter before they die.  These obstacles are often unresolved issues or deep fears that need to be expressed prior to the death process.  All three of these themes provide valuable information to the dreamer in finding peace in death, as well as providing a sense of calmness for the loved ones left behind.

During the last stages of death there are tremendous opportunities to help those who are in the dying process.  In the final chapters of the book, the authors offer [advice] for the caregiver of those who are dying, including family members, friends, clergy, counselors or medical staff. Whether the reader is the person dying or the caregiver, understanding the messages of pre-death dreams will dramatically change views of death and help those around the dying with their grief.  Scattered throughout the book are examples of dreams to illustrate the points of the text.  This aids in understanding the concepts and ideas expressed with regard to dying and dreams. 

This book is a wonderful resource for those who are interested in spiritual direction at Holos University Graduate Seminary. It is informative as well as practical in guiding those close to death with messages from their dreams.  This book would not be helpful for those with a general interest in dream work, as the specificity and scope are very limited. 

Book review by Deborah Pratt

MBA, BSJ, Holos University Graduate Seminary Doctoral Student

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