Whenever I read a book on suicide and/or suicide prevention, I find myself asking three key questions: 1) Did I enjoy reading the book? 2) Was the content informative in some manner? and 3) Are there ways that I can use this material in my work with others? I responded affirmatively to each of these questions regarding Richard A. Heckler's book: Waking Up, ALIVE: The Descent, The Suicide Attempt and The Return to Life (c1994, C.G. Putnam's Sons).

As each of you knows, every book has its own flavor or tone. Some are academic. Others tend to be more clinically based. This book, to me, has power because it feels "personal." Heckler does an excellent job of using real life cases to illustrate a number of suicidal journeys. In chronicling these journeys, he not only shares their descent into depression and hopelessness, but he also illustrates what he refers to as the "Anatomy of Recovery".

In looking at the topic of suicide, Heckler focuses not on the diagnostic perspectives but, rather, on the phenomenological ones. The text is rich with excerpts from individuals at various stages of suicidality and recovery. He shares the common precursors of each individual's journey toward a suicide attempt. From the bedrock of despair and hopelessness, Heckler then chronicles their journeys to their decision to live and their ultimate sense of increased clarity, hope and fulfillment. Through intimacy and sharing, we broaden our understanding of the many facets of suicidality and of the journey to hope and healing.

Many segments of Waking Up, ALIVE will touch you. Some segments will trigger feelings of pain or sadness. Others will motivate and inspire you. Regardless, it is a given that you will feel even more compelled to reach out and make a difference in the lives of those you meet.

Review by Vickie Watson