When a Friend Dies A Book for Teens About Grieving & Healing.... If you are grieving the death of a friend, do something for yourself. Take the time to read this book. It isn't very long - there aren't a lot of words - but you may find the help you need to cope with your sadness and begin to heal. Author Marilyn Gootman has seen her own children suffer from the death of a friend, and she knows what teenagers go through when another teen dies. Let her genuine understanding, gentle advice, and compassionate wisdom guide you through the next few days, weeks, or months. If you're a parent or teacher of a teen who has experienced a painful loss, this book is for you, too.