Summary

"Happens Every Day" is a poignant memoir by Isabel Gillies that chronicles the shattering of her seemingly perfect life when her husband, Josiah, abruptly leaves her for another woman. The story begins idyllically in Oberlin, Ohio, where Isabel, a former actress, has embraced the role of housewife and mother, supporting her husband's academic career as an English professor. Their life together appears picture-perfect: a renovated dream home, two young sons, and a close-knit community. However, this façade crumbles when Josiah falls for Sylvia, a new faculty member, leading to a swift and devastating separation.

The memoir delves into Isabel's shock and struggle to comprehend the sudden unraveling of her marriage. She grapples with feelings of betrayal, inadequacy, and a desperate desire to salvage her family. Gillies vividly portrays the challenges of co-parenting with a husband who is emotionally and physically withdrawing, while also navigating the complexities of small-town life where everyone knows everyone else's business. The narrative captures her attempts to maintain normalcy for her children amidst the turmoil, juggling teaching responsibilities, household duties, and the emotional fallout of the separation.

As Isabel confronts the reality of her impending divorce, she transforms from a betrayed wife into a determined survivor. She makes the difficult decision to move back to her childhood home in New York City, seeking the support of her family and friends. The memoir poignantly depicts her journey of self-discovery as she redefines her identity beyond wife and mother, exploring new passions and rediscovering old ones. Gillies' narrative is filled with raw honesty, vulnerability, and a surprising amount of humor, as she navigates the complexities of divorce, single motherhood, and finding her own path forward.

Throughout the memoir, Gillies reflects on the nature of love, marriage, and the unexpected turns life can take. She explores the challenges of maintaining friendships, the complexities of family dynamics, and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Ultimately, "Happens Every Day" is a story of heartbreak and healing, of finding strength in vulnerability, and of embracing the possibility of a new beginning even when life takes an unforeseen and painful turn. It's a celebration of female friendship, family support, and the courage to rebuild a life after loss.