Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the subject of death has never been so prominent and we know that many of our customers have experienced an unexpected loss. But, despite it being a universal experience, we still find conversations about death incredibly hard, making it one of the life events we’re least equipped to deal with.
About the book
How to Die Well is a comprehensive guide to death, dying and loss, which aims to help us all become better prepared – emotionally, practically and financially. The book features a wealth of useful content, including:
- Personal essays by leading journalists and authors, including Rhik Samadder, Kevin Toolis, Dr Kathryn Mannix and Amita Joshi
- Interviews with experts in the field of death and notable figures in wider culture
- Informative chapters containing practical support and guidance across four key sections (‘Before you go’, ‘Your funeral’, ‘Saying goodbye’ and ‘Good grief’)
- Fact sheets, activity pages, checklists and further resources
- Original illustrations by renowned illustrator Andrea Ucini
By approaching topics such as end-of-life planning, arranging a funeral, saying goodbye to loved ones and coping with grief from a wealth of different perspectives, we hope to break the silence around death and provide the practical support and information needed to make dying well a fundamental part of living well.

Be the first to know about the launch
Want to know about the launch of How to Die Well, our practical guide to death, dying and loss?
Sign up to be notified when the free digital version of the book goes live. Once it's released, all you'll need to do is register with a few simple details to get a copy.
Support and information
We have lots of resources, guidance and information to help you and your loved ones deal with loss. Visit our Lost for Words exhibition, or take a look at our funeral poverty and bereavement pages.
Funeral poverty
The rising cost of funerals is leaving many people struggling to pay for their loved one's send off. At Royal London, we lead and influence the government and industry, as well as provide the practical support to help people have an affordable and dignified funeral.
Bereavement
Managing your finances can be challenging at the best of times, but when you lose someone close it can feel especially overwhelming. Our Bereavement Hub has lots of helpful information and guidance on end-of-life related money matters.