Better Death

Jonathan Romain is a Rabbi, writer and broadcaster, and was previously Chair of Dignity in Dying. He is regularly heard on the BBC, and his many books include Confessions of a Rabbi (2017).

To read the caring, humane views put forward by Rabbi Jonathan Romain was a huge relief. Obviously, as he is in favour of changing the law, it is unsurprising that I welcome his contribution to the debate. But he is also fair-minded and bases his arguments on real evidence. - Esther RantzenWe are so fortunate to have someone as articulate and empathetic as Jonathan Romain to make this crucial argument. - Daniel Finkelstein OBEThe best and most balanced account of the assisted dying debate. It favours assisted dying in a way that addresses all its aspects. And it’s very moving as it describes the ways a death may be experienced and marked. It is truly a brilliant, insightful book. - Charlie Falconer, former Lord Chancellor and Justice SecretaryPeople want to end their lives for different reasons. Some don’t want to deal with pain. Others wish to avoid the humiliation of being dependent on others, or losing control over their bodily functions. Many simply feel they are no longer themselves and that their illnesses are limiting their capacity to enjoy what is left of life. The author’s approach to all such cases is compassionate, non-judgmental and humane. - Eilis O’Hanlon, Irish IndependentEsther Rantzen’s Preface to Romain’s book opens with “For most of my life, I thought I was immortal” . . . Romain is emotionally compelling about the imperative to relieve suffering and respect the wishes of those who would choose assisted dying over the indignity of incapacity and dependence. - Tina Beattie, The TabletIf there can be a life-affirming book about death, this is it. Jonathan Romain’s compassion and humanity permeate every page. His professional and personal experiences have given him privileged access to the views of patients and their relatives. Their hopes and fears have influenced his opinions and provide the background to this story. - Graeme Catto, former President of the General Medical CouncilJonathan Romain is a gentle, insightful and honest guide to assisted dying, and makes a powerful case for it. This moving book left me thinking this option is a loving and necessary expression of our care for one another. - Revd Canon Rosie HarperAs a former hospice CEO, I recognise both the power and the limits of end-of-life care. Jonathan Romain’s compassionate case for assisted dying sets out beautifully the essential reform we need to offer terminally ill adults true dignity and choice. - Mark Jarman-Howe, former Chief Executive of St Helena Hospice