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Psychotherapist Irvin D. Yalom probes further into the mysteries of the therapeutic encounter in this entertaining and thoughtful follow-up to his bestselling Love's Executioner

In six enthralling stories drawn from his own clinical experience, Irvin D. Yalom once again proves himself an intrepid explorer of the human psyche as he guides his patients--and himself--toward transformation. With eloquent detail and sharp-eyed observation Yalom introduces us to a memorable cast of characters. Drifting through his dreams and trampling through his thoughts are Paula, Yalom's "courtesan of death"; Myrna, whose eavesdropping gives new meaning to patient confidentiality; Magnolia, into whose ample lap Yalom longs to pour his own sorrows, even as he strives to ease hers; and Momma--ill-tempered, overpowering, and suffocating her son with both love and disapproval. A richly rewarding, almost illicit glimpse into the therapist's heart and mind, Momma and the Meaning of Life illuminates the unique potential of every human relationship.

Average Customer Rating:

sweet & sour

Customer Rating:

Momma and the Meaning of Life has some great stories. Unfortunately it also has some less great ones. Yalom shares interesting insights about his relationship with his mother and, as always, demonstrates well the advantages of self awareness in therapy. There are a couple fictional stories that while not horrific are not, in my opinion, as good as the rest of his work and sorta throw the book a bit off balance as a whole.

Amazing	Customer Rating:
This novel is amazing, as Yalom usually is. I was not dissapointed. I loved the stories based loosely on real cases and also loved the fictional stories. He's a talented writer, and as a young therapist I learn so much every time I read his work.

fantastic read	Customer Rating:
so simple to put into words....this book is fantastic! read and enjoy

Great Read	Customer Rating:
Great read for those interested in the counseling/psychology field. I would not recommend to be used as 'educational' but covers a lot of information on grief. The last two chapters are fictional but the rest are based on real clients.

A gem from a master psychotherapist

Customer Rating:

Dr Yalom shares in "Momma and the Meaning of Life: Tales of Psychotherapy" a unique window into the workings of a master psychotherapist. Dr Yalom elegantly describes what and how he learns from patients struggling through complex therapeutic journeys, modestly giving them credit for helping him become a more sensitive therapist. A real gem that I have shared with colleagues and friends which I recommend for anyone wanting to be a psychotherapist