American Book of the Dead

With over 120,000 copies sold, this contemporary work brings the timeless Tibetan Bardo teachings into modern American culture, offering 49 days of readings for those who have died or are preparing for the dying experience. It serves as a spiritual tool for assisting a dying person rather than focusing on grief or loss. The front matter includes "Notes on the Labyrinth" and commentary that provides insights for readers wishing to offer this guiding service to terminally ill individuals. The reading instructions clearly outline the schedule and content, making it accessible without any specific belief system, as it is presented as non-denominational and compatible with various faiths. The schedule graphically illustrates how to conduct the 49 days of readings, each lasting approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Since its initial release in 1974, the book has been utilized in university courses on Death & Dying, referenced in various contexts, and employed by hospice workers and nurses worldwide. It is often mentioned in discussions of the 1970s West Coast spiritual renaissance, and many from the baby boomer generation recall it from their college days. Translations are available in Spanish and Greek, with more editions in progress in other languages. A course is also offered online for those interested in performing "Labyrinth Readings" beyond their personal networks.