Colin Bell
Member, Web of Loneliness Online Support Group
This book is one of two resources, the other being the book "Lonely" by Emily White, which I have found particularly helpful in understanding my loneliness. I would recommend both though I guess for the budget-conscious this would be the one to choose since it's such a bargain price. I thought I was in an unusual situation since I felt lonely despite being in a relationship - in fact there are a couple of people featured in this book in exactly the same situation. I am impressed at how brave and open people have been about discussing such personal information. I was also impressed a lot by Sean's commentary on each case study which added value to the book and gave insights which the person themselves cannot see. I think it would be a good idea for any lonely person wishing a greater understanding of themselves and lacking someone else to give them feedback to read through these case studies and see which issues apply. Am happy to give this a 5/5 rating for being such great value for money - it's also the first time I ordered a Kindle book (using the Kindle for PC free Amazon software so I am not actually viewing on a Kindle) and the reading experience is fine so UK readers don't let it being a Kindle book put you off.
Mary Catherine Lamia, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist and Professor, The Wright Institute
A defining feature in Sean Seepersad’s book, The Lonely Screams: Understanding the complex world of the lonely, that sets it apart from most other self-help books written by psychology professionals is how it encourages readers to respond, through specific website links, with their own experiences and reactions. Readers are invited to respond to seventeen different stories, which are autobiographical accounts about experiences of loneliness that website visitors had previously submitted. If the reader is lonely, he or she is likely to identify with at least one of the stories, and possibly find some comfort, not only in feeling less alone, but as well in Dr. Seepersad’s perspectives following each of them. Clearly, Dr. Seepersad is devoted to the topic of loneliness and to the plight of those who, for various reasons, experience this emotion prominently in their lives. Although he notes various research studies in his perspectives on the stories, he does not cite the research specifically, and thus the reader cannot pursue more in-depth study. Even so, the point of the book does not seem to be a scholarly treatment of the topic of loneliness, but instead is written as a soulful and touching account of how it really feels to be lonely.
Linda Dencker
Retired HR Director, Tai Chi Instructor, Shiatsu and Reiki practitioner and Grandmother
I am an only child of an only child and have felt lonely and disconnected for as long as I can remember. I spent much of that time thinking I was defective and must have been the cause of my predicament. In reading Sean’s The Lonely Screams, I found myself able to connect with bits and pieces of the many who contributed to his book. I appreciate their willingness to share and Sean’s insights and ability to shape their stories into a truly helpful book. I learned about myself and unexpectedly about my parents.
The organization of The Lonely Screams is unique in that the first person accounts are followed by Sean’s insightful comments and healing suggestions allowing the reader to reflect on different points of view. Sean’s grasp of the complex world that is marked by the loneliness we all share in some degree shows a depth and understanding that gives his book its strength and power.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Sean through our love of Tai Chi and know that his interest in the subject of loneliness comes from his own experiences and an authentic desire to assist both him and others in the process of connective healing. Through reading The Lonely Screams I felt a genuine connection to the community of the lonely.
The organization of The Lonely Screams is unique in that the first person accounts are followed by Sean’s insightful comments and healing suggestions allowing the reader to reflect on different points of view. Sean’s grasp of the complex world that is marked by the loneliness we all share in some degree shows a depth and understanding that gives his book its strength and power.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Sean through our love of Tai Chi and know that his interest in the subject of loneliness comes from his own experiences and an authentic desire to assist both him and others in the process of connective healing. Through reading The Lonely Screams I felt a genuine connection to the community of the lonely.