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The Wrong Calamity: A Memoir
Raised to believe she’s a no-account, Marsha Jacobson falls prey to an assistant dean at her college, who knows a pushover when he sees one. Afraid to say no, she agrees to marry him and move to Japan. A chance meeting with a Mattel Toys executive leads to a high-stakes job, and as success boosts her confidence, Peter becomes more abusive. After they return to America, she escapes from him with their two toddlers, chased by police. Three years later, a single parent with a serious health emergency, she earns an MBA.
Feeling a true sense of herself for the first time, Marsha launches a significant career and reconnects with Jay, a former colleague and recent widower. They marry and have many joyful years together—until Jay’s buried past comes to get them and their life together starts to crumble. Ignoring harsh truths as things deteriorate, she insists they’ll make it to the other side of this hard time with their marriage intact.
Then the true calamity they’re facing becomes apparent and shatters her. With time, reflection, and the ability to recognize support when its offered, she emerges from her grief sure-footed and able to have a happy, fulfilling life. In this compelling, generous, and, above all, inspiring memoir, Marsha reckons with the way trauma spreads from generation to generation and person to person, and learns that the effects of trauma need not last a lifetime.
Feeling a true sense of herself for the first time, Marsha launches a significant career and reconnects with Jay, a former colleague and recent widower. They marry and have many joyful years together—until Jay’s buried past comes to get them and their life together starts to crumble. Ignoring harsh truths as things deteriorate, she insists they’ll make it to the other side of this hard time with their marriage intact.
Then the true calamity they’re facing becomes apparent and shatters her. With time, reflection, and the ability to recognize support when its offered, she emerges from her grief sure-footed and able to have a happy, fulfilling life. In this compelling, generous, and, above all, inspiring memoir, Marsha reckons with the way trauma spreads from generation to generation and person to person, and learns that the effects of trauma need not last a lifetime.
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
266 pages, Hardcover
Published October 13, 2023
9 people are currently reading
1635 people want to read
About the author
Marsha Jacobson
1 book15 followersHaving grown up in a small Midwest town, I went to college in Boston and discovered I’m a city gal. I now live in New York City and am an author, teacher, and writing coach. My work has appeared in the New York Times; the Visible Ink anthology; and the flash fiction anthology, For Sale: Baby Shoes, Never Worn. My memoir, The Wrong Calamity, is my debut book. Previously, I was an executive in corporations and nonprofits and a consultant to nonprofits. When I’m not writing, you might find me reading in a park or cooking something out of the ordinary in my kitchen while singing along with a playlist.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 23, 2023
TITLE: THE WRONG CALAMITY: A MEMOIR
AUTHOR: Marsha Jacobson
PUB DATE: 10.17.2023 Pre Order Now
I adore reading nonfiction memoirs. I believe that everyone has their own story to tell, and many times, I quote Mark Twain when I say, “truth is stranger than fiction” not that this memoir is strange, but there are just some things you cannot make up. I feel that reading memoirs bestows an insight into understanding a human perspective, provides a challenge that can give inspiration, and relate to the story as a powerful motivator.
THE WRONG CALAMITY: A MEMOIR by Marsha Jacobson is a well written memoir that tells her story as if I’m sitting down with a friend and catching up on life updates. Jacobson has a wonderful way of telling her story. I find her life-story heartbreaking with what she had to go through with both of her marriages, but I am also enthralled by her ability to survive a life filled with challenges, by raising her daughters by herself, while getting her business degree at Harvard no less, and going through a medical emergency. I particularly enjoyed her stories while she was in Japan and Taipei - it made me miss those countries so beloved to me. Overall, I enjoyed this quick read and enjoyed a wonderful inspiring story.
AUTHOR: Marsha Jacobson
PUB DATE: 10.17.2023 Pre Order Now
I adore reading nonfiction memoirs. I believe that everyone has their own story to tell, and many times, I quote Mark Twain when I say, “truth is stranger than fiction” not that this memoir is strange, but there are just some things you cannot make up. I feel that reading memoirs bestows an insight into understanding a human perspective, provides a challenge that can give inspiration, and relate to the story as a powerful motivator.
THE WRONG CALAMITY: A MEMOIR by Marsha Jacobson is a well written memoir that tells her story as if I’m sitting down with a friend and catching up on life updates. Jacobson has a wonderful way of telling her story. I find her life-story heartbreaking with what she had to go through with both of her marriages, but I am also enthralled by her ability to survive a life filled with challenges, by raising her daughters by herself, while getting her business degree at Harvard no less, and going through a medical emergency. I particularly enjoyed her stories while she was in Japan and Taipei - it made me miss those countries so beloved to me. Overall, I enjoyed this quick read and enjoyed a wonderful inspiring story.
January 24, 2024
Almost every memoir is a story of resilience, but this one is much more: it’s a riveting account of coming of age as a Mom and a professional in the 80’s, of injury and forgiveness, and yes, of the little angels that are out there to help in the worst of times, if you know how to look for them. Beautifully written, a page turner, I could not put it down.
December 29, 2023
The Wrong Calamity: A Memoir” by Marsha Jacobson is a stirring and motivating autobiography full of honesty and heart. It’s the life story of a woman who found herself following deep pain and loss. Issues such as neglect, domestic abuse, eating disorders, and being a single parent were the matters she lived and dealt with. At times the trauma was so big she didn’t know what to do with it, and it seemed to seep out into other areas of her life. But she is living proof that beginning in calamity doesn’t mean you have to stay there or end up in it. You can overcome, and this is what this autobiography is all about.
Marsha was a vulnerable freshman in need of self-esteem when she met a guy at college with control issues. She decided to marry him because she was too scared to object, and they moved to Japan, where she worked at Mattel Toys. But her husband became more abusive as her success began to grow. Once back in America, she is caught up in a dramatic police chase that ends with her and her two young children escaping. She then pursues an MBA at Harvard while at the same time raising her daughters and trying to dodge and defend herself from her ex-husband, who seems out for revenge. She marries someone else, but his dark secrets come to life and destroy her relationships, illusions, and career.
Jacobson writes with honesty and emotion, which will bring readers a sense that they aren’t alone, that if others can escape the pain, so can they. The author writes with a good balance of pain and recovery, and that is one of the life lessons she offers here: you can recover from devastating events in your life. As you read, you will begin to see why she found herself in the calamities that she did, and she isn’t the only one.
Many women, and men, find themselves in situations that they don’t fully grasp, and due to past trauma, don’t have the will or means to prevent it until it’s perhaps too late. But there is a silver lining in her cloud, and basically, this memoir can be your silver lining if you’ve wound up in a similar situation and don’t know what to do or how to feel. You can improve your sense of self-worth and confidence. There is a lot of wisdom woven through this book, along with some wry wit. I love that she describes how she downplayed the warning signs that were right in front of her, as so many people do. And I love her success story, which is a beacon for anyone. If you are looking for a remarkable life journey that offers inspiration and insight, “The Wrong Calamity: A Memoir” by Marsha Jacobson, should be at the top of your reading list.
Marsha was a vulnerable freshman in need of self-esteem when she met a guy at college with control issues. She decided to marry him because she was too scared to object, and they moved to Japan, where she worked at Mattel Toys. But her husband became more abusive as her success began to grow. Once back in America, she is caught up in a dramatic police chase that ends with her and her two young children escaping. She then pursues an MBA at Harvard while at the same time raising her daughters and trying to dodge and defend herself from her ex-husband, who seems out for revenge. She marries someone else, but his dark secrets come to life and destroy her relationships, illusions, and career.
Jacobson writes with honesty and emotion, which will bring readers a sense that they aren’t alone, that if others can escape the pain, so can they. The author writes with a good balance of pain and recovery, and that is one of the life lessons she offers here: you can recover from devastating events in your life. As you read, you will begin to see why she found herself in the calamities that she did, and she isn’t the only one.
Many women, and men, find themselves in situations that they don’t fully grasp, and due to past trauma, don’t have the will or means to prevent it until it’s perhaps too late. But there is a silver lining in her cloud, and basically, this memoir can be your silver lining if you’ve wound up in a similar situation and don’t know what to do or how to feel. You can improve your sense of self-worth and confidence. There is a lot of wisdom woven through this book, along with some wry wit. I love that she describes how she downplayed the warning signs that were right in front of her, as so many people do. And I love her success story, which is a beacon for anyone. If you are looking for a remarkable life journey that offers inspiration and insight, “The Wrong Calamity: A Memoir” by Marsha Jacobson, should be at the top of your reading list.
September 21, 2023
I love memoirs, I love that people are brave enough to put pen to paper and share their inner most secrets with us and that is what Marsha has done.
Her life was not easy even as a child when she was uprooted to Indiana, where her mother was restarting their lives. Fast forward to Marsha in college where she meets and marries an assistant dean of the college she attended. You would think being married means happily ever after but it does not.
She moves across the world to Japan with her husband
Peter and when she is having what should be high, happy moments in her career, she is not able to enjoy that, Peter is not kind at all.. she reaches her breaking pint and leaves..
Just when I think there is going to be a happy ending because she does Marsha does find love and has happy years with her new husband, her world takes another turn for the worse..
Ugh, my heart broke for this woman reading her story, it is heartbreaking and empowering at the same time. She did not give up, she did not crumble, she survived and persevered through more than any woman should have to live through.
I enjoyed how in-depth she gets with her writing when living in Japan, I have yet to visit there but it is high on my list of places to go..
If you are a non fiction lover and you are looking for a memoir to read, this one is worth picking up.
Her life was not easy even as a child when she was uprooted to Indiana, where her mother was restarting their lives. Fast forward to Marsha in college where she meets and marries an assistant dean of the college she attended. You would think being married means happily ever after but it does not.
She moves across the world to Japan with her husband
Peter and when she is having what should be high, happy moments in her career, she is not able to enjoy that, Peter is not kind at all.. she reaches her breaking pint and leaves..
Just when I think there is going to be a happy ending because she does Marsha does find love and has happy years with her new husband, her world takes another turn for the worse..
Ugh, my heart broke for this woman reading her story, it is heartbreaking and empowering at the same time. She did not give up, she did not crumble, she survived and persevered through more than any woman should have to live through.
I enjoyed how in-depth she gets with her writing when living in Japan, I have yet to visit there but it is high on my list of places to go..
If you are a non fiction lover and you are looking for a memoir to read, this one is worth picking up.
October 14, 2023
Marsha Jacobson tells her amazing story with an honesty and clarity that comes through from the first page. Her traumatic journey is an incredible tribute to the human spirit and it's resilience in the face of obstacles that seem insurmountable. Her love for her children and her desire to move forward and overcome her difficult circumstances is very moving and I was silently cheering her on as I read page after page, unable to put this book down.
Marsha's challenges begin early in life with bullying from just about everyone around her and continue on into her relationship with her abusive husband. Her incredible drive to be a good mother and to provide for her children lead her to become more than she ever thought she could be. Despite even more emotionally damaging setbacks she continues to move forward and her life is a testament to her inner strength. While this book has parts that may be difficult for some to read, it is ultimately about the growth and success of a woman that fought to survive and thrive in her quest for happiness and a fulfilling life.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Marsha's challenges begin early in life with bullying from just about everyone around her and continue on into her relationship with her abusive husband. Her incredible drive to be a good mother and to provide for her children lead her to become more than she ever thought she could be. Despite even more emotionally damaging setbacks she continues to move forward and her life is a testament to her inner strength. While this book has parts that may be difficult for some to read, it is ultimately about the growth and success of a woman that fought to survive and thrive in her quest for happiness and a fulfilling life.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2023
A riveting book that follows the highs and many lows of a woman who is unlucky in love. Her professional wins are a testament to the power of endurance and renewal. I especially enjoyed the unexpectedly sweet moments she shared with an ex. It really captured the complexity of a breakup. I think a lot of women can relate to many experiences in this book.
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September 4, 2023The scenery whipped by and the wind gushed through the open car window. The road was winding and she let the car’s engine lull her into a sense of calm. The radio was silent, allowing her mind to be the noise. So much had happened and there was no telling where life would take her now.
The Wrong Calamity is Marsha’s memoir detailing everything she has gone through and triumphed over in her life. Her travels, her traumas, her fight for what she wanted and deserved.
Marsha’s story started a little all over the place for me, but soon fell into a good rhythm that had my attention. I enjoyed reading about her time in Japan and the descriptions of her time there. I also was inspired by her bravery and fight when she became a single mother and all seemed to be falling apart in her life. She didn’t give up and I was happy to see things fall into place. But that being said, she still went through many hardships that life handed her: divorces, custody battles, job hardships, navigating loss and traumas. It was a very interesting memoir to read.
If you’re a fan of reading memoirs, then you might want to check this one out.
CW: Abandonment, Toxic Relationship, Body Shaming, Eating Disorder, Bullying, Fire, Divorce, Child Custody Battle, Harassment, Kidnapping, Medical Talk, Ectopic Pregnancy, Death, Suicide (briefly mentioned), Grief, Infidelity, Mental Illness, Child Abuse.
The Wrong Calamity is Marsha’s memoir detailing everything she has gone through and triumphed over in her life. Her travels, her traumas, her fight for what she wanted and deserved.
Marsha’s story started a little all over the place for me, but soon fell into a good rhythm that had my attention. I enjoyed reading about her time in Japan and the descriptions of her time there. I also was inspired by her bravery and fight when she became a single mother and all seemed to be falling apart in her life. She didn’t give up and I was happy to see things fall into place. But that being said, she still went through many hardships that life handed her: divorces, custody battles, job hardships, navigating loss and traumas. It was a very interesting memoir to read.
If you’re a fan of reading memoirs, then you might want to check this one out.
CW: Abandonment, Toxic Relationship, Body Shaming, Eating Disorder, Bullying, Fire, Divorce, Child Custody Battle, Harassment, Kidnapping, Medical Talk, Ectopic Pregnancy, Death, Suicide (briefly mentioned), Grief, Infidelity, Mental Illness, Child Abuse.
November 1, 2023
Can’t believe this is Marsha Jacobson‘s first book! Jacobson brings readers along as she navigates a series of unforeseen events that disrupt her outwardly well-ordered life. The Wrong Calamity is filled with humor, wit, love and lots of wisdom. Her writing style is articulate, fluid, easy to follow, interesting and delightful.
In a world where we often aim to meticulously plan our lives, Jacobson provides a unique perspective on how to manage the unpredictable nature of life. Marsha embodies resiliency, and grace as she works through, and ultimately even embraces, the unexpected twists and turns that came her way.
Every word seemed important. The dialogue and conversations felt authentic and never forced. Marsha Jacobson's storytelling is insightful and humorous, creating a page-turning narrative that I totally resonated with.
As an author of a memoir myself, I look for interesting and engaging reading. A light touch can be a plus for me. The Wrong Calamity did it all. It's a memoir SO worth reading for anyone looking for an enjoyable and thought-provoking experience.
In a world where we often aim to meticulously plan our lives, Jacobson provides a unique perspective on how to manage the unpredictable nature of life. Marsha embodies resiliency, and grace as she works through, and ultimately even embraces, the unexpected twists and turns that came her way.
Every word seemed important. The dialogue and conversations felt authentic and never forced. Marsha Jacobson's storytelling is insightful and humorous, creating a page-turning narrative that I totally resonated with.
As an author of a memoir myself, I look for interesting and engaging reading. A light touch can be a plus for me. The Wrong Calamity did it all. It's a memoir SO worth reading for anyone looking for an enjoyable and thought-provoking experience.
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November 2, 2023*Thank you to Dart Frog Books for my gifted copy*
Marsha Jacobson has lived a very interesting and intense life. From growing up in a dysfunctional family to dealing with domestic abuse, health issues, grief, and loss, she somehow survived it all and grew stronger from each obstacle. Even when she seemed to be at her lowest, Marsha was able to move forward and carry on. Her story was very inspiring, hopeful, and at times sad. With every blow she was dealt, I wished that she would find the peace she so desperately needed.
And through it all, Marsha had a great support system, especially in her midlife, that played a part in helping her overcome some of her toughest circumstances. When they say it takes a village, it really does, and Marsha credits those who played a special part in her life.
Marsha Jacobson has lived a very interesting and intense life. From growing up in a dysfunctional family to dealing with domestic abuse, health issues, grief, and loss, she somehow survived it all and grew stronger from each obstacle. Even when she seemed to be at her lowest, Marsha was able to move forward and carry on. Her story was very inspiring, hopeful, and at times sad. With every blow she was dealt, I wished that she would find the peace she so desperately needed.
And through it all, Marsha had a great support system, especially in her midlife, that played a part in helping her overcome some of her toughest circumstances. When they say it takes a village, it really does, and Marsha credits those who played a special part in her life.
May 5, 2024
Until recently, I thought that memoirs had to be written by someone famous to be interesting — this book confidently proved me wrong. Though I don’t, at least on paper, have much in common with the author, I found a lot of her experiences relatable, especially the ones dealing with disordered eating and not fitting in with her peers at university. This relatability is enhanced by Jacobson’s ability to craft evocative prose that features a robust vocabulary.
To put it simply, Jacobson’s life has been filled with so many ups and downs, twists and turns, and downright evil people that it almost doesn’t seem real. There were several points in the story when I felt bad for her, but I deeply admire her courage and ability to persevere. I’m grateful she had the bravery to share her story, and I believe I have a new perspective on life thanks to her unique insights.
To put it simply, Jacobson’s life has been filled with so many ups and downs, twists and turns, and downright evil people that it almost doesn’t seem real. There were several points in the story when I felt bad for her, but I deeply admire her courage and ability to persevere. I’m grateful she had the bravery to share her story, and I believe I have a new perspective on life thanks to her unique insights.
November 28, 2023
This is an incredibly relatable memoir that feels like a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend. The author's candid storytelling makes her life experiences feel like universal struggles and triumphs. The ups and downs of her journey are told with humor and honesty, making this memoir a comforting and inspiring read for anyone navigating life's unexpected twists and turns. I felt myself relating to and understanding all the things she was going through. As someone who has faced so many ups and downs in the last 20 years, including the dissolving of a marriage, I felt it in my soul. This was beautifully written!
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April 22, 2024Often times people who aren’t celebrities have a hard time getting a memoir published. Jacobson’s memoir is one that highlights why memoirs from “normal” everyday people should be published. Her story is powerful, honest and inspiring.
Jacobson’s extraordinary life experiences are told through strong prose and transparent storytelling. I felt connected to her as she let readers into her own life, fears, mistakes and successes.
Jacobson’s extraordinary life experiences are told through strong prose and transparent storytelling. I felt connected to her as she let readers into her own life, fears, mistakes and successes.
August 14, 2024
Marsha Jacobson's "The Wrong Calamity", is an intimate detailed memoir of her struggle with domestic violence and especially expert account of her first spouse's controlling behavior right from the beginning. One can see the change in Marsha as her strength grows and she is able to step out of another deceitful relationship. Her writing is compelling as she prepares the reader for unforseen surprises.
September 16, 2024
The Wrong Calamity is a page turner, recounting a life full of surprising twists and turns. The author has endured heartache but emerges resilient and successful, in an uplifting way. As a reader, I felt I was reliving many of the vivid moments in this memoir, and I related deeply to the scenes and situations described.
October 18, 2023
A phenomenal memoir by an incredible woman. This is one you won't soon forget!
July 26, 2025
Marsha's story is compelling, one of fortitude and courage! I cannot imagine the strength it took for her to overcome her circumstance! I highly recommend this book!
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September 19, 2024
This was a very inspiring, engaging and well written memoir.
October 1, 2023
To say this was “enjoyable” wouldn’t be the right phrasing, but it was an intriguing memoir that I read in just a few short sittings. Marsha has absolutely lived a “story worthy” life and I think anyone that enjoys memoirs (or general “girl power” stories) would find this to be an interesting read. It started off a little jumbled and choppy for me, but then I think she found her writing grove and I was invested in her life story. I was rooting for her! That same jumbled writing returned at the very end with the focus oddly shifting back to her childhood and grandparents, but it wasn’t anything too worthy of complaint. My personal interest was higher piqued during the relationship/personal/home life anecdotes vs. the business/career anecdotes, but I found the memoir as a whole simultaneously heartbreaking and hopeful. I appreciate Red Clover Digital providing me with this advanced e-copy!
June 2, 2024
This smartly written thrill ride of a memoir is hopeful, inspiring, thought-provoking, and a pure pleasure to read. Once I got started, I couldn’t wait to dive into it again—the sure sign of a good read. Jacobson tells her remarkable story with courage and confidence, in a writing style that’s at once intelligent and accessible.
Jacobson has lived an extraordinary life, fraught with conflict and setbacks yet also characterized by stunning accomplishments and the inner strength to bounce back from heartbreak and adversity. Though there’s nothing ordinary about her, she’s sympathetic and relatable nonetheless, a role model for women of all ages. Author Jacobson might have gotten the calamity wrong, but she sure got the memoir right.
Jacobson has lived an extraordinary life, fraught with conflict and setbacks yet also characterized by stunning accomplishments and the inner strength to bounce back from heartbreak and adversity. Though there’s nothing ordinary about her, she’s sympathetic and relatable nonetheless, a role model for women of all ages. Author Jacobson might have gotten the calamity wrong, but she sure got the memoir right.
November 29, 2023
This is a beautifully written account of the author's two two difficult marriages and how she nevertheless managed to raise her children and carve out a satisfying career. It's clear-eyed and never self-pitying. I found myself racing through it, turning the pages to find out what happened next.
December 29, 2023
Marsha’s story was filled with such highs and lows which created such a beautifully composed memoir. Easy and enjoyable read. Thank you for the gifted copy
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews