As a young widow, I can truly see where Joyce speaks of all the trials and tribulations that a widow experiences. This is a must read for all who have lost their soulmate. Not a self help book but one that shows the journey that will experience in one way or another.

Something is to be learned about human nature by reading Oates introspective memoir. However, I am half way through the book and I do not think I can finish. The story is simply too depressing, as the title implies, and I do not enjoy reading it.