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Life—and death—may be hard; but joy is simple. 

Lannette Cornell Bloom, a typical, overworked nurse, wife, and mom of two, was forty-three when her mother was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. She quit her job and dove headlong into the familiar role of caretaking. This choice—to slow down and be present for the hardest year of her life—resulted in an awakening. In unexpected moments, as childhood memories flooded into the present, Lannette glimpsed bits of magic that existed just beyond the pain. Without knowing it, she was experiencing a mindful dying process with her mother—and it was a journey that would change the way she lived the rest of her life.

A touching and soulful memoir that gracefully uncovers the beauty that is often lost within the dying process, Memories in Dragonflies is a beautiful portrait of what it means to be human and a gentle reminder to enjoy every moment, because even the simplest ones bring lasting joy.

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Memories in Dragonflies, Simple Lessons For Mindful Dying is Gold Medal Winner in the 2019 Living Now Book Awards for Caregiving as well as a Silver Medal Winner in the 2019 Living Now Book Awards for Grieving/Death & Dying. In addition, Memories in Dragonflies is an Award-Winning Finalist in the Spirituality: Inspirational category of the 2019 International Book Awards.

 
 
 
 

READ THE REVIEWS

Reviews

“Just as a dragonfly moves with purpose and direction, darting from one level to another and from one second to the next, the author gently leads the reader back and forth between precious memories of the past to the treasured and fleeting moments of the present. Bloom elicits an ever-deepening and more mindful understanding and acceptance of the inevitable—the beautifully complex ending to the journey that is life. There are no lectures or how-to's in this book, only gentle encouragement to "never forget the absolute beauty of slowing down to the rate of a dying soul." The right perspective, in any situation in life, can turn that situation into a thing of beauty, regardless of the pain that may be brushed into the background.”

- The Eric Hoffer Award

“If you liked Advice on Dying by the Dalai Lama, read Memories in Dragonflies by Lannette Cornell Bloom.”

- SheReads.com

"A relatable, tenderly observed account of the “sacred joy” of tending to the dying."

- Kirkus Reviews

“A lovely memory of life.”

- Nancy Fuller, Food Network Star and author Farmhouse Rules Simple, Seasonal Meals for the Whole Family

“Bloom has created an emotionally powerful story. Through her recollections she has eloquently captured the complex feelings many nurses experience—both the joys and the burden of caring for someone at the end of life. The memories Bloom shares allow us to learn about the person her mother was and the person Bloom is; and we connect with both on a very human level. It should be required reading for nursing students.”

- Catherine M. Todero, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean of Creighton University’s College of Nursing

“In her book, Memories in Dragonflies, author Lannette Cornell Bloom, takes us on a very personal and poignant journey. It is the author’s story of her mother and her experience helping her to die with dignity. This ultimate role reversal where an adult daughter becomes her mother’s caregiver is one readers will relate to and want to follow. She shares how her mother’s illness impacts her entire family and how they all have to come to terms with her impending death. Along the way her mother’s strength guides them as they learn to comfort, love, and support each other every step along the way.”

- Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW, author of Role Reversal, How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging Parents

“In her beautifully written memoir, Lannette Cornell Bloom shares the emotional story of caregiving for her mother who is slowly dying. You become immersed in Bloom’s world of caregiving and memories that brings to light the challenges and simple joys during this difficult time. I recommend this book to any caregiver, family member, or friend who is dealing with a dying loved one or recent loss, which will serve as an opening to reflection on your own experiences.”

- Diane L. Schneider, MD, geriatrician, and author of The Complete Book of Bone Health    

“Memories in Dragonflies is a book I recommend to anyone needing to move through and accept dark times, especially facing the mortality of ourselves and those we love.”

- Marilyn, Me You and Books