A Better Death

The Case for Assisted Dying

Jonathan Romain author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Reaktion Books

Published:1st Feb '26

Should be back in stock very soon

A Better Death cover

Assisted dying is one of Britain’s most pressing and divisive social issues. Should terminally ill people in pain be allowed to choose death on their own terms? This timely and accessible book lays out the moral, legal and practical dimensions of the debate. It draws on real-life experiences, explores opposing viewpoints with sensitivity and examines the wider social and ethical implications. Designed for readers of all beliefs and backgrounds, it presents the facts with clarity and compassion. A pioneering section also offers the first guide to meaningful ceremonies at the time of an assisted death, helping families honour life and ease grief. Whether you support, oppose or are unsure about assisted dying, this essential book provides insight and guidance on a deeply personal issue.

"People 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 Independent
"The 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 Secretary
"If 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 Council
"Jonathan 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 Harper
"We are so fortunate to have someone as articulate and empathetic as Jonathan Romain to make this crucial argument." - Daniel Finkelstein OBE
"As 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
"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 Rantzen

ISBN: 9781836391647

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

136 pages