Gray Divorce

Everything You Need to Know About Later-Life Breakups

Non-Fiction - Relationships
204 Pages
Reviewed on 11/01/2022
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Dr. Jordan Alexander for Readers' Favorite

Whether you are just considering divorce or a professional working in the field, Gray Divorce: Everything You Need to Know About Later-Life Breakups by Linda Hershman offers a comprehensive resource that delivers exactly what the title promises. It is the first book of its kind to prepare readers and give guidance to counselors, therapists, clergy, and coaches to support people. Divorce has become more accepted in religious circles and with the no-fault divorce legislation, the numbers are rising, with 50% of adults over sixty-five remarrying. Readers will be amazed at the treasure trove of topics, real-life examples, and references. No stone is unturned as you discover the changing environment of gray divorce. Using statistics and research, Hershman reveals what is happening in later-life LGBT divorce, and the unique issues faced by the BIPOC community (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) as well as adult children of divorce (ACOD). She deep dives into same-sex and mixed-orientation marriages, spouse transitions, and impacts on those left behind. It even covers how Covid-19 influenced decisions to stay, citing financial and practical reasons.

Gray Divorce by Linda Hershman uses practical examples relating to the target demographic of digital immigrants (those who did not grow up using computers). One woman shares how the prospect of online dating post-divorce is terrifying. The book sets out support considerations that go beyond traditional marriage counseling. The author shares modern alternatives like divorce mediation, collaborative divorce, and discernment counseling (where one spouse is leaning toward divorce and the other wants to preserve the marriage). Other options from cognitive therapies to visualization and positive psychology are introduced along with the pros and cons of each. Hershman discusses the importance of accreditation for those you choose to work with and why selecting the right fit must take into account your preferences for talk-based, in-person, or online options.

As you reach the end of the book, you are encouraged to permit yourself to seek the help you need. You will become familiar with the tools and options available and feel confident to move forward. You will have learned everything you want to know about later-life breakups and will appreciate why the author, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, has been dubbed a pioneer in the field of gray divorce. This book is a fabulous resource poised to make a meaningful difference for years to come.

Bonnie Disalvo

You may see other books on this subject however Linda's book addresses the needs of many groups of ethnicities, etc. The book is well written, easy to understand, and I recommend you read it.