UNEXPECTED GIFTS

Midlife has a habit of forcing change. Whether we’re in a career or marriage cul-de-sac, caring for aging parents or coping with empty-nest syndrome, we find ourselves re-evaluating our lives as never before. So what does it take to spark meaningful change?

Unexpected Gifts is an anthology of sixteen short stories and essays, a reflection on midlife and its inflection points. With authors spanning seven countries, these “Stories of Change” explore some of life’s biggest questions through a variety of voices. Alongside successful writers and podcasters, we hear from a social worker, a psychologist, a widow, and a lawyer; a “single mom by choice” and a father honoring the loss of his son. By experiencing change through the eyes of others, we challenge our own choices and begin to lean into new possibilities.

Compiled by Storyhouse Works founder Hannah Huber, this special anthology features original portrait illustrations by Amsterdam artists, and will serve as an inspirational keepsake for generations to come.

Illustrations by Patricia Velasco, Anna Demina, and Tanja Bladt-Cohen

Cover concept by Hannah Huber, design by Cigdem Guven

Editor: Kristin Anderson

Translators: Fatima Fazli-Vermeulen & Hannah Huber

Proofreader: Anna Trapmore

Released: June 2025

Text: English