Beyond Knowing: Mysteries and Messages of Death and Life from a Forensic Pathologist

I am fortunate to live in the same county where Dr. Amatuzio was the chief medical examiner and didn't realize how lucky I was because fortunately, I never needed to know. Dr. Amatuzio retired recently and I am currently privileged to work with her predecessor during the most awful time of my life, the unexpected death of my 2 year old daughter. There is a reason why Dr. Amatuzio is known as the "compassionate coroner" and her predecessor is the same- kind, compassionate, highly educated and very professional. Both of her books have brought me comfort and helped me to heal during my difficult time. Although I believe in communication after death, sometimes people are skeptical of stories that are written from a psychic medium's perspective. That is what I love about Janis' books- she isn't a psychic. She is a highly acclaimed forensic pathologist who risked the ridicule of her respected colleagues and peers to share the stories that cannot be explained by medicine because these stories needed to be told. These stories will give you hope, comfort and encouragement even if you don't need it right now but someday you most likely will.

A friend recommended Forever Ours to me several years ago. I was so moved by this book that I ordered Beyond Knowing right away. It does go through the authors career but that is how she found these remarkable stories. I do suggest reading Forever Ours first however. I keep ordering both books to give to friends and family.

Great perspective of death and what lies ahead from a scientist and MD. A comforting book to all those who question what’s next and if there is an actual next.

Read the first book and had to get this one. Being someone who has had MANY like experiences with loved ones and pets who have made their transitions and continue on, I can say I truly agree that we do continue to exist after this life and our loved ones want us to know it. The author shares her stories and those of others in a way that captures the heart and opens it like a flower in bloom. This book will touch every part of you with wonder and love.

Janis Amatuzio is a lovely person - it shows in this book. It is deeply compassionate, very professional, and takes one into the room of those dying. It does the latter in such a way that we begin to make friends with death. Janis recognises that death is something of a mystery, but this book makes that mystery just a little clearer. Unusual stories of reassurance from beyond the grave and various synchronicities help one come to terms with death's great finality. I have used this book to comfort bereaved friends and they have all found it helpful in the healthiest possible way. This is not a book about strange spirituality, but about a busy doctor who in a totally professional manner, offers hope and comfort to those left behind.. This is a "must keep" if you buy it.

Once I started this book I could not put it down. I have had two of these experiences, one after the death of my 8 year old daughter and after the death of my husband. It was wonderful to read about the experiences of others. Everyone should read this book.

I was hoping for more from this book. The stories and experiences the author presents seem rather weak as a whole. Initially, the author gives a quick summary of her upbringing as a child. In retrospect, I do not know why. It isn't really relevant to the book. The bulk of the book shares stories of family and friends of recently deceased who describe various types of connections from the recently dead. But, all of the stories seem like little snippets lasting from one paragraph to 2-3 pages. There doesn't seem to be much organizational structure to the book, analysis or comprehensive understanding, or follow-through of any appreciable sort. The book is OK, and perhaps others will find it fulfilling. I was just wishing for more.

I love this collection of short stories. A Remarkable accounts of near death experiences and stories that will stick with you for life.

This is a book that makes you think! It's a book that, in parts, makes you cry! It's a book that once you start reading you don't want to stop. I'm very glad that I purchased this, and I highly recommend it.