How to Die

A continuation of the author’s previous book on the subject, Why Not: Fifteen Reasons to Live . A novelist who trained in philosophy at university, Robertson draws on both disciplines. How to Die combines a survey of Western literature’s most compelling works on the subject of death with a memoir-driven argument for a mindful relationship with mortality. The recent development of the “Death Café” phenomenon—essentially 21st century salons that meet “to increase awareness of death to help people make the most of their (finite) lives” (www.deathcafe.com)—are a ready-built audience. With a January pub date, the mindful living themes give this title a strong “New Year, New You” sales angle with regards to bookstore displays and buying guides. Big potential for course adoptions: Death and Dying courses are taught in philosophy, sociology, gerontology, nursing, and pre-med programs. Comps include Julian Barnes’ Nothing to be Frightened Of and Alain De Botton’s Essays in Love and The Consolations of Philosophy .