Claire Bidwell Smith

Claire Bidwell Smith is an American author and grief counselor known for her memoir-style books exploring themes of loss, grief, and healing. Her most notable works include "The Rules of Inheritance" (2012), "After This: When Life Is Over Where Do We Go?" (2015), and "Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief" (2018). As a licensed therapist specializing in grief, Smith draws from both her professional expertise and personal experiences, particularly the loss of both her parents to cancer by the time she was 25. Her writing combines memoir with practical insights about navigating loss and bereavement. Smith's work has appeared in numerous publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Psychology Today, and Salon. She maintains an active clinical practice while conducting workshops and speaking engagements focused on grief counseling and therapy. Her books have been published in 18 countries and "The Rules of Inheritance" was optioned for film by Jennifer Lawrence's production company. Smith holds a master's degree in clinical psychology and serves as a grief consultant for major healthcare organizations.

Readers connect strongly with Smith's raw honesty about grief and loss in her memoirs. Her personal stories about losing her parents resonate with those experiencing similar journeys. What readers liked: - Authentic, vulnerable writing style - Practical advice combined with emotional storytelling - Clear explanations of grief stages and anxiety - Helpful insights for both grieving individuals and therapists - Relatable experiences that make readers feel less alone What readers disliked: - Some found "After This" too focused on spirituality/afterlife - Parts of "Rules of Inheritance" feel disjointed due to non-linear timeline - A few readers wanted more concrete coping strategies Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: "Rules of Inheritance" 3.9/5 (3,800+ ratings) - Amazon: "Anxiety: Missing Stage" 4.6/5 (300+ ratings) - "After This" averages 4.2/5 across platforms Reader quote: "Finally someone who understands the connection between grief and anxiety. This book validated my experience." - Amazon reviewer

The Rules of Inheritance (2012) A memoir chronicling the author's experiences of losing both parents to cancer by age 25, structured around Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief.

After This: When Life Is Over, Where Do We Go? (2015) An exploration of the afterlife through interviews with religious scholars, psychics, and grief experts, prompted by the author's personal loss experiences.

Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief (2018) An examination of the relationship between grief and anxiety, combining research, case studies, and the author's experiences as a grief counselor.

The Art of Losing Everything (2021) A memoir detailing pivotal losses in the author's life and their impact on her understanding of attachment and resilience.

Joan Didion writes about grief, loss and processing trauma through a personal lens, particularly in "The Year of Magical Thinking." Her work combines memoir with cultural analysis and philosophical reflection.

Cheryl Strayed explores themes of loss, healing and self-discovery through her own experiences with her mother's death and personal struggles. She focuses on raw emotional honesty and the physical journey as metaphor for internal transformation.

Elizabeth Gilbert chronicles her own life changes and spiritual seeking through memoir and personal essays. Her work centers on transformation after loss and finding meaning through travel and relationships.

Anne Lamott writes about faith, family relationships, and personal growth through life's difficulties. She combines personal narrative with observations about grief and healing.

Dani Shapiro examines family secrets, identity, and the impact of loss through memoir and autobiographical writing. She focuses on uncovering truth and making sense of the past through detailed personal investigation.