Reconcilable Differences: Marriages End. Families Don't.

by Cate Cochran

When Cate and her husband split, they divided the house so that he lived upstairs, she lived downstairs and the children floated inbetween. This book explores ten “succesfully failed” marriages where families reconfigure after divorce.

264 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Sondra Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous book for parents of all shapes & sizes. Cate Cochran talks with several couples who are redefining the modern family and what it means to truly put the children first.

After marriages that resulted in divorce (for over a dozen different reasons) the couples in this collection of true stories share their success of raising a family the non-traditional way.

For parents who are recovering from divorce or separation, this is a wonderful and inspirational read and one that is sure to spark some discussions and changes within our homes.

[Stephen Mcgarry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was recommended by a counsellor as an alternative to traditional separation and divorce. The author calls on her own experience navigating a separation from her partner while remembering and respecting their union and, most importantly, considering what is best for your children. Each chapter is based around a different case study. From wives realizing they want to explore same-sex relationships to husbands accepting that their relationship as husband and wife was not working. The common thread in every story is a willingness to explore non-traditional arrangements and a desire to work together rather than resort to getting as much for yourself at the detriment of your partner. Each case study includes quotes from both parties in the relationship as well as the children which is often the most insightful perspective. I found it a useful resource to think about how to live respectfully and that separation does not have to mean shuffling kids between parents’ houses. Every case is unique and there are challenges but if both parties commit to finding a working solution, families can find a happyish medium (there are always compromises). I did feel some of the cases were neatly written to fit with the overall message of the book rather than portraying the complexity of the case, hence the 3 stars.

[Sergio C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stories on amicable divorce / living arrangements and putting the kids first. Not very many books out there where the separated / divorced couple get to tell their story first hand. I learned quite a bit from their experiences. Very enlightening. Author should consider writing another. There is no shortage of such stories.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives you many ideas on how to separate but do so in a way that doesn't completely traumatize the children. It is much harder to do it this way but I like the non conventional suggestions.