A powerful exploration of grief after the author's son's death that combines memoir, reportage, and lessons on how to heal. Everyone deals with grief in their own way. Helen MacDonald found comfort in training a wild hawk. Cheryl Strayed found solace walking the Pacific Crest Trail. For Carol Smith, a Pulitzer-nominated journalist struggling with the sudden death of her seven-year-old son, Christopher, the way to cross her river of sorrow was through work. In "Crossing the River," Smith recounts how she dealt with the painful loss through profiles of people fighting their own intense challenges, whether it is an accident, exhausting illness, or a frightening diagnosis. Smith skillfully intertwines these individuals' stories and those of their families with her own narrative on how they helped her heal. General John Shalikashvili, once the most powerful member of the American military, taught Carol how to face fear with discipline and resilience. Seth, a young boy with a rare and incurable illness, sheds light on his son's ultimate experience, helping readers understand that the value of a life is not measured in days. This is a beautiful and deeply moving book, an unforgettable journey through grief and a precious, enlightening read for anyone struggling with loss.