A widower has lost a spouse, an orphan has lost their parents, but what do you call someone who has lost a sibling? Oh, right — there’s no word for that. This week, we have the pleasure of connecting with cultural researcher, writer and storyteller Annie Sklaver Orenstein, author of Always A Sibling. After Annie’s brother Ben was tragically killed by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan, she found herself in the grief section of her local bookstore, searching for guidance on how to navigate the pain of losing a sibling — but found nothing. In a quest for understanding, Annie spent over a decade researching and talking with thousands of people around the world, exploring the unique bond between siblings and the deep sorrow that comes with losing one. Through recounting memories of her brother Ben and the insights learned from her research, Annie has crafted an incredible story that illuminates sibling love and loss.

About Annie Sklaver Orenstein

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Always A Sibling

Remembering Ben