- Author: Lisa Doust
- Publisher: Rockpool Publishing
- Publishing Date: January 2026 AU/NZ, February 2026 US/UK
- Published: Australia
- RRP: AU$32.99 / GB£18.99
- ISBN: 978192320852
- Reviewed by: Bec Birrell @myinnerwitch
Anyone who has experienced the sudden death of a loved one will know how incredibly helpful a journal like A Final Word would be in making the transition for those left behind as easy as possible. During a time of grief, the logistics of coordinating memorials and funeral services can be a heavy and difficult burden. Lisa Doust has created a journal that covers essential directives, vital information and thoughtful prompts that will leave behind a handbook for your wishes. A Final Word is a practical and beautifully crafted guided journal, not only to outline your final wishes, but also as a legacy of your cherished memories and wishes for your loved ones.
A Final Word is a hard-backed, linen-covered, 208 paged journal. It is a beautifully designed guide featuring delicate gold highlights with a magnetic closure. The artwork and design by Rockpool Publishing is lovely and serene, while also striking and contemporary, gentle and fluid without being overly sentimental.
This journal was born from tragedy and necessity, when the author’s sister’s husband and two children were suddenly killed in an accident. This left grieving family members to navigate the bureaucratic, financial and official paperwork hurdles. The entire process took an entire year to complete. Having all the crucial information at hand is a gift for those left behind, while also allowing meaningful discussion around death to take place.
Anyone facing an impending end of life situation, preparing for the future or wishing to reflect on a life well lived, will find the gentle prompts and elegant design an extensive resource to assist in getting one’s affairs in order, while also providing an opportunity to leave behind a heartfelt conversation to be cherished.
The practical aspects of leaving behind a trail for vital digital information such as phone access, passwords and social media accounts, social media strategy, funeral preferences – and while I have already made known my funeral preferences and music choices – this journal outlines so much I had not really considered. Practical prompts include bank accounts, superannuation details, your will inclusions and exclusions, details for your pets, your farewell and ways your loved ones can honour you in remembrance.
The journal, however, is not limited to the funeral proceedings. Personal insights and the deepest parts of your character can be journalled here – your greatest achievements, favourite things, philosophical ideals and religious beliefs (this is important to state if you don’t want a default Christian service for example), life lessons learned, secrets held and last words of love to pass on, including sections for photographs and areas to list your inner circle of friends, your family tree, memories and favourite things.
Interspersed throughout the journal pages are poignant and profound quotes that serve as reflection points. Helpful information about the process of probate for those left to handle the affairs. What is a will? Details outlining the logistics around types of funerals and memorials, along with fundamental issues like where is your superannuation? Are you an organ donor? What insurances do you hold? Do you want public announcements or private?
Death is something that we will all experience, our loved ones and ourselves, yet we are very disconnected from discussions around death. This journal gives the opportunity to outline your wishes, your legacy and to plan your celebration of life to fit what you envision. The author states that she would also like the journal to foster open, healthy and practical discussions around death.
A Final Word is a beautifully crafted and practical end of life plan that will leave behind your legacy of cherished memories, thoughts and details while also providing a helpful guide for your loved ones to navigate your wishes during a period of grief.
You can get A Final Word at https://www.rockpoolpublishing.com/a-final-word
By Bec Birrell www.myinnerwitch.com
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