I think most people have wondered what happens when we die. P.M.H. Atwater answers this question and more. Atwater shares the stories of several people who have had near-death experiences (NDE's), both from adults and children.

You'll recognize the names of some well known celebrities; she covers the positive and negative results from having visions of heaven and hell, and how lives of those who have glimpsed "the other side" change. Some find it a life altering experience for the better, and others head down a road of self destruction. They all confirm an existence of life after death. Atwater covers the points of other researchers who claim NDE's are nothing more than cases of oxygen deprivation and she also explores various religions and their stand on life after death. She touches on reincarnation and cell memory. Cell memory occurred when a transplant recipient started craving foods they never liked; the food later was determined to be a favorite of the donor.

Atwater really has the ultimate book on near-death experiences. She will answer all your questions, even questions you didn't realize you had. Yes, we survive death as do animals.

Her book is a fascinating adventure in understanding the meaning and purpose of life. Her voice is friendly and easy to understand, and it's reassuring to see some common components in all the near-death experiences, like the dead floating above their bodies, a white light, and being greeted by a calming presence. At least that is the case for those with positive journeys to the other side; visions of half animal-half man demons in hell for others.

Addressing the case of suicide, Atwater discovered even those who attempted to end their own lives "came back with a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth." The problems they were trying to escape remained but they felt empowered to address the problems head on. Some people who had NDE's later suffered from depression. They had a sense of not being worthy of what they experienced. Children have the highest rate of depression and substance abuse later in life. They often don't have the support system available to adults to work through the resulting emotions, and "because children have such a struggle verbalizing what happens to them under the best of circumstances, their efforts at talking about their near-death experiences are usually quite bewildering and seemingly fanciful."

I enjoyed some of the artwork included in the book. Sketches of angels and guides in a white light were drawn by those who wished to share their experience. This book is not just a glimpse into heaven but also a thoughtful gesture of hope for all of us. It should be required for all who deal with the sick and dying, especially those who work with children. A gift as beautiful as a near-death experience shouldn't result in psychological problems later.

This book explores near-death experiences and challenges readers to open their minds and hearts to those who have a story to tell. A story that may challenge long held beliefs but will offer a sense of hope and purpose in return.