The best divorce books can offer support, comfort, and practical advice during a difficult time. The best books will help you navigate this challenging time on a personal, financial, and legal level. Regardless of the stage of divorce you are in – facing a divorce or have already been through one – a good book can help you to understand the process and make the best of it.
The best divorce books to help you through the process
Divorce can be a difficult, challenging process. Studies show that individuals who read books about divorce may cope better during the process and more easily transition to life after divorce. Fortunately, there is a wide range of excellent books for people looking for help in navigating the oftentimes tumultuous waters of divorce. These books are varied and cover all aspects of the process and its accompanying emotions, offering support, insight, guidance, and information. Some even provide advice on finding new relationships after a divorce or co-parenting with an ex. While everyone should seek out legal help when going through a divorce if at all possible, reading one or several of these dedicated volumes can also be beneficial when making such an important life decision.
How to choose the right divorce book for you
Deciding to get divorced can be a difficult and emotionally draining decision, so it is important to find the right divorce book that fits your specific needs. With the abundance of books on divorce available in bookstores, online, and through therapists’ offices, it may seem like a daunting task at first. Before choosing a book, make sure to read reviews and try to get an idea of what the book covers. Additionally, determine if the author has experience with divorce or if the advice is anecdotally based—this will give you essential insight into whether you should trust the advice presented in the text. Once you have narrowed down your choices, ask yourself specific questions such as: Does this writer offer practical strategies for empowering myself during my divorce? Will this book help me map out a plan for going forward? If you take these simple steps before purchasing a book on divorce, then you’ll be doing yourself a great service by ensuring that it meets your individual needs.
From self-help books to books targeted toward young children, here are some of our favorites.
“Divorce Busting” by Michele Weiner-Davis
Michele Weiner-Davis’s book “Divorce Busting” has become a mainstay of couples counseling in the decades since its release. The book details strategies for coping with and diffusing difficult situations within a marriage. In it, Weiner-Davis outlines how to talk openly and without judgment while maintaining respect, encouraging honesty, and reinvigorating intimacy between two partners. Readers who struggle with communication within their relationships are sure to find applicable insights in this work that can help them reconnect over deeper conversations and enhance their understanding of one another. Ultimately, “Divorce Busting” aids individuals who hope to revive many aspects of their married life so that they may continue with each other confidently into the future.
“The Good Divorce” by Constance Ahrons
Constance Aaron’s book, “The Good Divorce,” takes an intimate look at what it takes to raise children in a divided family. Ahrons uses her research and experience as a couples therapist to guide the reader through this complex process. She advises preserving lasting relationships between ex-spouses, co-parenting strategies, amicable settlement options, and creating new post-divorce rituals. The best thing about this book is its unflinching acceptance of divorce. Ahrons is honest in stating that if one decides to stay together for their child’s sake without seeking help to resolve issues, it can lead to further detriment down the road. In “The Good Divorce,” readers will find valuable resources and insights for navigating parenting challenges after divorce.
“We’re Still Family” by Constance Ahrons
“We’re Still Family” is a book by Mavis Hetherington and John Kelly that focuses on the complex relationships involved with divorce. Written from the perspectives of divorcing couples, parents, and children of divorce, this unique collection of essays offers insight into how families can sustain meaningful relationships even after severing legal ties. Through candid interviews with divorced families, the authors provide an in-depth look at the impacts of divorce and how it affects all family members. Ultimately, “We’re Still Family” provides an optimistic perspective on remaining connected after divorce and reminds us that even amidst turbulence, the bonds between family members remain strong.
“Helping Children Cope With Divorce” by Edward Teyber
Edward Teyber’s book, “Helping Children Cope With Divorce,” is a must-read for anyone looking to understand better what it means to support and nurture a child going through their parents’ divorce. This comprehensive work helps readers empathize with this challenging period in a child’s life. Teyber covers topics such as expressing emotions without pumping guilt and loyalty issues without any judgment. He also puts forth strategies and advice on what children need more than what they say they want. This kind of guidance proves invaluable while navigating a sensitive subject such as this one and is sure to help those trying to be good friends through the ups and downs of helping children cope with their parent’s divorce.
“The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce” by Judith Wallerstein, Julia Lewis, and Sandra Blakeslee
“The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce” by Judith Wallerstein, Julia Lewis, and Sandra Blakeslee is a must-read for those interested in the long-term impacts of divorce. This groundbreaking work suggests that we should view divorce through the lens of our children and how it may shape their lives in adulthood. Through 30 years of research, Wallerstein et al. uncovered surprising glimpses into a seemingly invisible cycle – sometimes passed down from generation to generation – related to marital dissolution. Suppose you are grappling with the dynamics of post-divorce parenting or curious about what lies beyond the initial shock and chaos of marital disruption. In that case, this book is an informative resource worth looking into.
“The Divorce Handbook” by Keaton Hoskins and Ashley Johanna
“The Divorce Handbook” is invaluable for anyone facing or amid divorce proceedings. A New York Times bestseller, this book provides a comprehensive overview of divorce’s legal and emotional aspects. Severing long-term relationships can be an incredibly confusing and complex process. Things fall through the cracks, and the legal process can be expensive and confusing. Still, with this book under your belt, you’re better equipped to oppose your former partner’s interests and aim for successful settlements. You’ll also gain insight into how to deal with the post-divorce fallout to make a smooth transition into your new life. Divorce certainly isn’t easy, but with Lisa Scottoline’s guidance, it doesn’t have to be harrowing, either.
“F*ck Divorce: A Science-Based Guide to Piecing Yourself Back Together after Your Life Implodes” by Erica Slotter and Patrick Markey
Erica Slotter and Patrick Markey attempt to offer solace to those going through the distress of a divorce in their book, F*ck Divorce: A Science-Based Guide to Piecing Yourself Back Together after Your Life Implodes. Drawing from their fields of research, psychology, social neuroscience, and controlled experimentation, they present sound advice on how to process loss and rebuild one’s self-confidence and trust to move forward with one’s life. They also emphasize the importance of creating lasting habits that ensure healthy physical and emotional well-being and building a healthy relationship with yourself. Their book is full of personal accounts that illustrate how anyone can make it through such a challenging experience, giving readers hope that even during this dark time in their lives, there are ways to come out stronger on the other side.
“Divorce & Money: Make the Best Financial Decisions During Divorce” by Lina Guillen
Divorce can be stressful and overwhelming, especially regarding financial decision-making. However, it is not the end of the world, and you will have a better life ahead if you prepare correctly. Lina Guillen’s book Make the Best Financial Decisions During Divorce provides valuable guidance on navigating this challenging process. Guillen offers helpful information on separating banking accounts and other assets, defining and protecting credit ratings, calculating child support and alimony payments, understanding tax implications of divorce proceedings, amending insurance policies, preparing for retirement after a split, and more. With her wealth of legal experience as an attorney for a major Texas law firm, personal stories from previous clients, and real-life examples from her practice, Guillen is equipped to provide solid advice and help you confidently make sound financial decisions during your divorce.
“Divorced Dads” by Sanford Braver
Sanford Braver’s book, “Divorced Dads,” dives into the world of single fatherhood and the trials that come with it. Braver paints a vivid picture of divorced dads trying to rebuild their relationship with their children after a divorce and fight society’s unfavorable view of single fathers. The stories presented in this book are pulled from interviews and years of research on the psychology and sociology of family dynamics. This allows readers to examine how life post-divorce affects children and dads alike. Braver sheds light on the difficulties these dads face – like cultural stigmas and custody battles – but also stresses the importance of joint custody in children’s development. Through comprehensive, real-life accounts, “Divorced Dads” by Sanford Braver offers insight into what it means to be a single dad in the 21st century.
“The Life-Saving Divorce: Hope for People Leaving Destructive Relationships” by Gretchen Baskerville
Divorce can be an intimidating and isolating experience, especially in cases when the relationship is no longer healthy. Gretchen Baskerville’s book “The Life-Saving Divorce: Hope for People Leaving Destructive Relationships” offers invaluable guidance to those considering getting divorced or already navigating through the process. This book provides much-needed wisdom and strength to anyone struggling with the decision to leave or trying to cope with a difficult divorce. It educates people about issues such as preparing for a response from their spouse, handling children caught in a conflict and recognizing opportunities for self-discovery. Baskerville’s expertise pairs practical advice with an uplifting perspective on this challenging situation that many individuals face today. By gathering essential insights from experts in psychology and law, she creates a beneficial resource that can serve as a beacon of hope during a time of emotional distress.
“Dinosaurs Divorce” by Laurene Krasny Brown and Marc Brown
“Dinosaurs Divorce” by Laurene Krasny Brown and Marc Brown is an essential book for parents with children dealing with the complex emotions of divorce. This marvelous book uses bright, vivid illustrations and a simple yet poignant text to help kids understand what’s happening and why. It facilitates conversations between children and their parents — helping them recognize responses to common feelings such as anger or fear, as well as helping to emphasize that love remains strong even after a family splits up. “Dinosaurs Divorce” provides an invaluable resource for any family going through this tough time and sets out the ground rules for an emotionally healthy co-parenting relationship. In addition to providing comfort to families dealing with divorce, it sets clear expectations for those involved to provide an atmosphere of mutual support and appreciation throughout this challenging transition period.
“Something Gained: 7 Shifts to Be Stronger, Smarter & Happier After Divorce” by Deb Purdy
Deb Purdy’s book, Something Gained: 7 Shifts to Be Stronger, Smarter & Happier After Divorce provides readers with an honest and powerful glimpse into the reality of life after divorce. It supports those facing complex changes by arming them with vital insights that help encourage personal growth and renewal. Sections on understanding the 7 “shifts” necessary to create a healthy lifestyle after divorce provides a comprehensive approach to healing and self-care. Deb writes in a warm and conversational style that has great potential to give comfort or even inspiration to those who have gone through such a life event. Her book is recommended for anyone seeking practical guidance navigating the uncertain waters of post-divorce life.
“Divorce, Simply Stated: How to Achieve More, Worry Less and Save Money in Your Divorce” by Larry Sarezky and Laila Sarezky
Divorce is a challenging experience for most, but with the help of Larry and Laila Sarezky’s Divorce: Simply Stated: How to Achieve More, Worry Less, and Save Money in Your Divorce, it doesn’t have to be so overwhelming. The expert advice featured in this book offers guidance on navigating the divorce process successfully. With tips about organizing paperwork, understanding child custody laws, completing court documents, and techniques for mediation or collaboration — readers will gain a critical understanding and knowledge of the divorce process that may save them money and alleviate stress. Accompanied by interactive worksheets, checklists, resources, and more — walk away from a divorce prepared and looking forward rather than hung up on the process.
“Splitting Up Together” by Siobhan Mullins
Splitting Up Together is an insightful and thought-provoking step-by-step guide to amicable divorce by Siobhan Mullins. Collaborative divorce is an important option and becoming more common worldwide, and Mullis’ book can help you decide whether to proceed wit this option. Throughout, readers gain a nuanced understanding of the complex emotions that come with making such challenging decisions. In addition, Mullins deftly guides readers through questions about identity, purpose, and the power of lasting connections and relationships. While she’s an Australian, the process and through the process applies to any divorce situation.
“Strategies and Tips from a Divorce Coach: A Roadmap to Move Forward” by Jennifer Warren Medwin
Jennifer Warren Medwin’s divorce coaching program provides meaningful strategies and tips to those navigating the confusing and often tumultuous divorce process. Her roadmap to move forward, which can be implemented immediately, has been used by many in the past. Drawing on her extensive knowledge as an experienced therapist, Jennifer offers practical wisdom to help people stay strong, grounded, and living with purpose while they venture down this new path. She encourages every individual to focus on self-care, explore their feelings in a healthy way and use mindfulness to reconnect with themselves – regardless of their relationship status. Jennifer’s idea is that one can survive the journey and thrive by committing to genuine and mindful restoration.
“Conscious Uncoupling” by Katherine Woodward Thomas
Conscious Uncoupling by Katherine Woodward Thomas is a powerful concept that shines a light on how we can navigate through a breakup or divorce constructively and honorably. This approach is different because it encourages people to view and experience the event not as the ending of a relationship but as an opportunity for both individuals to follow their paths, find acceptance, and create peace regarding their decision. It is an alternative option for couples exploring ways to part without using anger and bitterness as the primary guidance. In this process, those involved can use their senses – of feeling, seeing, and understanding – entirely without judgment to naturally move on with clarity, compassion, and grace.
“Splitting: Protecting Yourself While Divorcing Someone with Borderline or Narcissistic Personality Disorder” by Bill Eddy and Randi Kreger
Splitting: Protecting Yourself While Divorcing Someone with Borderline or Narcissistic Personality Disorder is an essential book for anyone caught in a difficult divorce from someone with a character disorder. Whether your partner has Borderline personality disorder (BPD) or Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), authors Bill Eddy and Randi Kreger share practical answers that help guide you through the process so that you can emerge in the best place possible. This comprehensive resource is designed to answer questions, ease worried minds, and provide strategies that will help you protect yourself, your children, and your assets and preserve your sanity during the very challenging divorce process. Splitting is a must-have toolkit when taking on this complicated situation.
“The Grief Recovery Handbook, 20th Anniversary Expanded Edition: The Action Program for Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses including Health, Career, and Faith” by John W. James and Russell Friedman
The Grief Recovery Handbook has been aiding people through the trials and tribulations of heartbreaking losses for 20 years. Its authors, John W. James and Russell Friedman take a unique approach suitable for any devastating loss experienced. From the new emptiness of the king-size bed to the challenges of being a single parent, this handbook can provide insight into the behavior many grieving individuals often feel from death to divorce. This 20th Anniversary Expanded Edition takes an in-depth look at other important issues such as health, career, and faith, all of which can also contribute to an individual’s grief and need to be resolved to move beyond their loss. The action program presented within this handbook provides techniques and resources to help people overcome their losses and live fuller lives afterward.
“I Just Want This Done: How Smart, Successful People Get Divorced Without Losing Their Kids, Money, and Minds” by Raiford Dalton Palmer
Raiford Dalton Palmer’s I Want This Done: How Smart, Successful People Get Divorced Without Losing Their Kids, Money, and Minds is a unique and timely guide for those seeking a positive outcome to their divorce. Palmer provides advice based on his years of experience as an attorney helping couples navigate the complex process of dissolving their marriage. From practical tips on document preparation to in-depth discussions of emerging family law developments, the book is sure to be invaluable to those looking for guidance on their journey. Palmer also offers insights into different ways to ensure divorcing parties can employ move forward without further damaging their relationships or financial security. With this essential guide, couples are sure to feel informed and empowered before entering the courtroom.
“It’s Called a Breakup Because It’s Broken: The Smart Girl’s Break-Up Buddy” by Greg Behrendt and Amiira Ruotola-Behrendt
It’s Called a Breakup Because It’s Broken: The Smart Girl’s Break-Up Buddy is the perfect read for anyone struggling to come to terms with the end of a relationship. This thought-provoking book, by Greg Behrendt and Amiira Ruotola-Behrendt, explores how women can recover from heartbreak and ultimately regain self-confidence and autonomy. Through practical advice, humor, and uplifting stories, this unique perspective shift can comfort those seeking healing or guidance during hard times. Armed with wit and courage, readers will discover how to move forward following a breakup — a journey that can be used as an opportunity to find courage through accepting loss.
“Getting Past Your Breakup: How to Turn a Devastating Loss into the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You” by Susan J. Elliott
Susan J Elliott’s book, Getting Past Your Breakup: How to Turn a Devastating Loss into the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You, is a powerful tool for those looking to heal from the pain of a breakup or failed marriage. Through her wisdom and insight, Elliott provides practical strategies that help readers manage their emotions while examining the relationship to find self-awareness and closure. Exercises such as “Farewell Letter Writing” allow readers to say goodbye and come to terms with what has happened. This book offers an inspiring pathway toward healing and resilience, supplying readers with guidance that can encourage them to build a peaceful and secure future.
“How to Sleep Alone in a King-Size Bed: A Memoir of Starting Over” by Theo Pauline Nestor
How to Sleep Alone in a King-Size Bed: A Memoir of Starting Over by Theo Pauline Nestor is an autobiographical novel about a woman’s struggle and both physical and emotional journey as she learns to categorize her life after the end of her marriage. It is an honest, raw, and compelling look at how the main character navigates through the wild terrain of heartache, loneliness, growth, and determination as she carves out a new life with conviction and courage. Drawing from insight gained through divorce recovery classes, Nestor tells an intimate story that is cinematic in scope as she confronts her fears and creates a resilient path forward. With humor and vulnerability, this memoir serves up hope for the future. A delightful yet moving read that will leave you inspired.
“When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times” by Pema Chodron
When faced with life’s inevitable difficulties, it can be helpful to have the words of Pema Chodron to turn to. In her book When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times, Chodron encourages readers not to view hardships through the lens of fear, and examples from her journey lend authenticity to her incredibly comforting advice. Those who want a more meaningful approach as they navigate life’s tough times should look no further than Chodron for guidance: her words are sure to offer solace and provide the courage needed to face adversity head-on.
“Collaborative Divorce: The Revolutionary New Way to Restructure Your Family, Resolve Legal Issues, and Move on with Your Life” by Pauline Tesler
Pauline Tesler’s book, Collaborative Divorce: The Revolutionary New Way to Restructure Your Family, Resolve Legal Issues, and Move on with Your Life, provides a hopeful and practical pathway for individuals going through the complex divorce process. By writing this book, Tesler offers an alternative to the traditional adversarial divorce that can often cause additional distress to an emotionally challenging situation. It offers readers concrete steps and strategies for navigating the legal maze that accompanies divorce. Tesler also emphasizes the importance of focusing on communication and problem-solving skills, which are crucial to achieving successful outcomes from a collaborative divorce. An invaluable resource for anyone going through a divorce, whether contested or uncontested, this book will help individuals better understand how to work together as a team and learn valuable lessons throughout the process.
“Mom’s House, Dad’s House: Making Two Homes for Your Child” by Isolina Ricci
Co-parenting and maintaining separate households for a child can be one of the most significant challenges a parent faces. Isolina Ricci’s book, Mom’s House, Dad’s House: Making two homes for your child, outlines possible strategies to create an environment in both homes that best serves the child’s needs. Through interviews with more than 500 parents and intensive case studies, Ricci examines successful solutions to help parents manage feelings of guilt, fear, and anger that can occur with co-parenting. She also provides concrete advice on living arrangements, financial obligations, and communication between parents. Mom’s House, Dad’s House is an excellent resource to help navigate these challenging waters and do what is best for all involved—especially the children raised in two homes.
“CO-PARENTING NIGHTMARE: Effective Techniques To Raise Resilient Children And Protect Them From Emotional Abuse In Your Toxic Relationship With A Narcissistic Parent And Ex” by Lara Carter
With certain challenges come educational opportunities, and divorced or separated parents with a co-parenting arrangement are no exception. For those of us parenting children in a co-parenting nightmare, Lara Carter’s book CO-PARENTING NIGHTMARE: Effective Techniques To Raise Resilient Children And Protect Them From Emotional Abuse In Your Toxic Relationship With A Narcissistic Parent And Ex offers valuable advice to help raise resilient children and protect them from negative emotions that can arise from toxic relationships with narcissistic parents or exes. Building on her personal experience and six years of research studying the effects of divorce and parental alienation on families, Lara shares products that have been proven effective for fellow co-parents facing similar situations. It provides helpful tools to recognize, identify and protect kids from emotionally abusive relationships and practical guidance on overcoming obstacles that arise when dealing with a toxic parent and ex.
“Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart” by Lisa Appelo
Life can be filled with struggles, but there is hope just when it seems like everything is crumbling around you. Lisa Appelo’s book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart offers readers a guide to overcoming adversity and facing life’s difficult moments. Through her unique insight and personal stories, Appelo helps us look at our hardships from different angles and learn vital strategies for restoring faith and finding the strength to create a better life. With gentle guidance and inspiring anecdotes, this book provides the wisdom necessary for rebuilding your world when all else has seemed lost. Healing is possible when we open ourselves up to growth and transformation – Appelo offers an invaluable opportunity to do that with her words of much-needed comfort.
Going through a divorce is tough, no matter how amicable it may be. But with the right support system and some helpful advice, you can get through it. We hope these 27 books can provide some insight and guidance as you navigate the process.