10 Best books for divorce: Read books to help you through divorce

Going through a divorce is like riding an emotional rollercoaster you never really signed up for. There’s a mix of sadness, anger, relief, and even fear of what comes next. When I first found myself in this situation, I often felt like I was on an island, surrounded by emotions too intense to handle alone. But I discovered that fiction and self-help books for divorce could be a lifesaver. They helped me process these overwhelming feelings, showing me that I wasn’t alone and that there was a way through the fog.

Literature and Separation

Literature, especially during such trying times, serves as a gentle guide. It offers perspectives that resonate, advice that’s practical, and stories that remind you that healing is possible.

When choosing a book to accompany you on this journey, look for key themes such as resilience, emotional healing, and practical guidance on rebuilding your life. These themes are essential as they help you survive a breakup, bringing comfort during uncertainty.

As for me, Helen Thorn’s Get Divorced, Be Happy is the book I read post-separation. Being a comedian, Helen made me laugh, cry, and realise it’s not the end of the world. Honestly, she convinced me I didn’t want to get back together with my ex-husband.

From my years of experience coaching other single women, here are 10 more books to help you through divorce:

Top 10 Best Books to Read for Divorce or Separation

“The Barefoot Investor” by Scott Pape

Divorce isn’t just about emotional upheaval; it often comes with financial challenges, too. Scott Pape’s The Barefoot Investor became my go-to guide for getting my finances in order.

Although not specifically written with divorcees in mind, it’s perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by financial jargon. Scott breaks down complex financial concepts into simple, actionable steps, helping you take control of your financial future.

What’s more, Scott is actually Australian, so you’ll find many stories and situations you can relate to in this bestselling book.

“Rebuilding” by Bruce Fisher

This classic has been a trusted companion for many facing the end of a relationship. Bruce Fisher’s Rebuilding: When Your Relationship Ends provides a step-by-step program to help you move through the emotional stages of the end of a marriage. The book is like a kind friend, offering understanding and practical counsel on how to rebuild your life from the ground up.

“Crazy Time” by Abigail Trafford

Abigail Trafford’s Crazy Time: Surviving Divorce and Building a New Life is a candid story that unravels the chaotic period following a divorce. The author shares real-life stories, including her own, which are both comforting and enlightening. This book reassures you that what you’re feeling is normal, and it gives you the tools to survive — and eventually thrive — in this season of your life.

“Getting Past Your Breakup” by Susan J. Elliott

Susan J. Elliott’s Getting Past Your Breakup: How to Turn a Devastating Loss into the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You is a powerful self-help resource for transforming pain into personal growth. I found the practical exercises especially helpful in dealing with the emotional fallout of my own breakup. This book is a tough-love coach, encouraging you to reclaim your life and move forward with confidence.

“Heartbreak” by Florence Williams

Florence Williams’ Heartbreak exposes the science of emotional pain, offering a unique perspective on the physical and psychological effects of a breakup. It’s both a memoir and an exploration of the science behind heartache, providing comfort in understanding why you feel the way you do — and how to heal.

“Aftermath” by Rachel Cusk

Aftermath: On Marriage and Separation is a deeply personal account of Rachel Cusk’s own experiences. Her raw and honest writing resonates with those who are grappling with the identity shifts that come with the end of a marriage. Rachel writes an unflinching reminder that while divorce is an ending, it’s also a beginning, a chance to redefine yourself.

“Split: A Memoir of Divorce” by Suzanne Finnamore

Screenwriter and editor Suzanne Finnamore’s Split is a candid, often humorous memoir that captures the emotional whirlwind of failing marriages. Best known for her work in Oprah and The New York times, Suzanne’s hilarious writing is both relatable and insightful, making you laugh one moment and tear up the next. Filled with humour, it’s a comforting reminder that you’re not alone in this journey.

“The Uncoupling” by Meg Wolitzer

Meg Wolitzer’s The Uncoupling is a novel that explores the ripple effects of divorce in a small community. While it’s fiction, the emotions and situations are all too real. The book offers a fresh perspective on the dynamics of relationships and the complex process.

“The Perfect Divorce” by Amanda Lemond

Amanda Lemond’s The Perfect Divorce: How to Stay Sane When Your Ex Drives You Crazy is a practical guide for dealing with a difficult ex. The reflective book provides strategies to help you stay calm and focused, even when your ex tries to push your buttons. It’s a must-read for anyone wading the tricky waters of post-divorce co-parenting.

Happily Ever After Divorce: Notes of a Joyful Journey by Jessica Bram

Finally, here’s a personal favourite. Jessica Bram’s Happily Ever After Divorce: Notes of a Joyful Journey offers an uplifting perspective on life after separation. Jessica shares her personal story, focusing on the joys and opportunities that come with starting anew. It’s a hopeful reminder that there is happiness to be found after a marriage ends.

Best Books for Divorce (cont.)Navigating the Aftermath

Once the dust has settled, it’s time to rebuild. Whether you’re a couple going through mediation or handling custody arrangements, these books provide the guidance and insight needed to steer the complexities of divorce. This is where these books truly shine, offering guidance on how to take the next steps.

Whether it’s getting your finances in order with The Barefoot Investor or finding emotional clarity with Rebuilding, these books provide the tools you need to move forward.

One common pitfall to avoid is rushing into new relationships or thinking about remarrying before you’ve fully healed. Books like Split can help you understand the importance of giving yourself time to process and grow. Remember, the aftermath of divorce isn’t just about survival — it’s about rebuilding a life that’s even stronger and more fulfilling than before.

Finding Support Beyond Books for Divorce

While books are a wonderful resource, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Managing the complexities of breakup often requires professional help beyond the pages of an essay, poem, or novel. This is especially true when dealing with family law issues, high-conflict separation, parenting arrangements, and legal matters.

Family Law and Mediation

Seeking the input of a family lawyer can provide you with the legal support and clarity you need during this challenging time. A good law practitioner can help you understand your rights, negotiate fair arrangements, and guide you through the legal processes involved in the dissolution of a marriage.

Mediation is another option worth considering if you want a less combative approach. It offers a more collaborative way to resolve disputes, allowing both parties to reach mutually beneficial agreements without the stress of court battles.

Therapy and Counseling

In addition to legal support, therapy or counselling can be incredibly beneficial. A therapist can help you process the emotional turmoil that comes with a split, offering coping strategies and a safe space to express your feelings. For many, therapy provides the emotional tools needed to navigate this life transition with resilience and strength.

Support Groups

Joining a support group was a game-changer. It was a place where I could share my story, listen to others, and realise I wasn’t alone. These groups can offer a sense of community and understanding that complements the wisdom found in books. They also provide a platform to discuss practical matters, such as legal challenges, custody issues, setting boundaries, and co-parenting strategies with others who are going through similar experiences.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Professional help, whether through a solicitor, mediator, therapist, or support group, can provide you with the comprehensive support you need to move forward confidently. Each piece of the puzzle works together to help you rebuild your life and find peace on solid ground.

Conclusion: Embracing a New Chapter

Divorce is undoubtedly one of life’s most challenging experiences, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and renewal. As you turn the pages of these books, you’ll find not just stories and advice but a roadmap to healing and rebuilding from grief.

Let these stories inspire you to embrace this new chapter of your life with an open heart and mind. Know that you’re stronger than you think and more capable than you ever imagined. After all, every ending is just a new beginning in disguise.

Single Mama Elle

Elle is our compassionate single mum counsellor, dedicated to guiding fellow mamas through life's challenges. With a heartfelt commitment to transforming obstacles into opportunities, Elle provides empathetic support and practical guidance to her clients. As a single mother herself, she intimately understands the daily struggles and joys of single parenthood. Outside of counselling sessions, Elle finds rejuvenation in nature walks and yoga practice, nurturing her own well-being to better support others. Through her counselling practice, Elle aims to instil unwavering belief in single mums, empowering them to navigate life's journey with resilience and optimism.

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