Twenty Pieces: A walk through love, loss and midlife reinvention

by Lisa Weldon

Lisa's world collapsed the year she turned 58. Her 25-year marriage ended; the only home her children had ever known fell into foreclosure; and her last child left the nest. Her financial lifeline, her career in advertising, had gone stagnant.
From under the crushing realities a wild idea popped into her head. What if she went away for 30 days, all alone to New York City and took a crash course to learn the new digital ways of her business? After class she could sneak in a 1-mile walk, each day treating herself to a different neighborhood of Manhattan, the place she'd always dreamed of living. Using the lessons she'd learn, she could share stories and photos from her daily walks, all in hopes of reinventing herself professionally.
It seemed like the perfect plan, and it was. However-the real truth she found on the streets of Manhattan never made it to her blog. Only in her personal diary did she share the rawness of what she learned about herself ... and all she needed to do to make the changes she wanted.
In her memoir, Twenty Pieces, Lisa Weldon shares what she learned.

Genres: Memoir

266 pages, Paperback

Published September 14, 2021

About the author

SILVER in the Nautilus Book Awards
FINALIST in the 18th Annual Best Book Awards

I walk cities.

Why? To find powerful and authentic stories.

In 2011, I cut a map of Manhattan into 20 pieces and walked one piece per day until I covered the entire island. After walking each day, I came home and recorded my findings in my blog, then shared my words and photos through social media. It was from this experience that I learned the power of storytelling.

The next year I spent thirty days walking every arrondissement of Paris. Huffington Post invited me to chronicle my walks then published my first submission on the front cover of their “Living Fearlessly” section. Oprah’s network, Harpo Productions, caught wind of my walks and invited me to give Cindy Crawford advice on turning 50.

And now? I have just released my memoir. It’s the story of a 58-year-old woman who reinvents herself by taking 30 days to walk through the pieces of her life.

Reviews

[Pat Cloud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Weldon's memoir, Twenty Pieces, was exemplary! I was on this journey with her the whole way as she vividly described her experiences in New York City and how they were transformative in her life, a life that felt as if it was crumbling. Walking the varied neighborhoods and districts of NYC served a healing purpose as her observations prompted memories of situations in her own life that were both sad and joyous. I was inspired by Twenty Pieces. I admire Lisa Weldon for her dreams and for her courage to follow those dreams.

[Freesiab BookishReview]

I really enjoyed reading Lisa Weldon’s memoir. I think it’s relatable to many people who’ve learned the harder ways of reinvention after any loss, or lifestyle change. Particularly to middle aged women. I loved her observations of New York City and her willingness to be honest with herself and her readers. We all need deep times of reflection for growth and it should be practiced more! A worthy read!

[Bren McClain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a necessary book. Lisa Weldon's "Twenty Pieces" shows how one woman gave herself an exclusive thirty days to figure out her life. She walked NYC and came away a reinvigorated, renewed human being. This memoir is perfect for book clubs.

[Janet Chapman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this memoir. Lisa gives voice to many woman of a certain age and place in life that so often goes unheard. I loved her honest introspection and found myself wanting more, as I share some of her challenges. The lively and truthful descriptions of NYC were fun as I am somewhat familiar with the city, but it was more of her personal journey I craved. I now intend to go back into her blog and dig deeper. I also agree with you about our mutual friend Joanna Webster, she is such an encourager, as are so many others in our Atlanta writing community.
Thank you Lisa for putting yourself out there. I look forward to hearing more from you in the future.
Janet

[Maxine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reinvention is the buzzword of our 60's. Lisa Weldon's book is a roadmap of her reinvention and thru it we can see one way to our own futures.

I know Lisa and can say that her voice shines through as she tells her story. I read things I knew vaguely about but didn't know the whole story. Don't make your friends write memoires to fill in the blanks of their stories! Listen as they tell them now.

I'm grateful for friends who share so openly, letting us see behind the veil. Life is complex and Lisa's story shows how being vulnerable can set us free.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the beginning of Weldon’s story, I identified with the frustration of trying to reinvent myself after 50. As a professional, there is the fear of becoming a dinosaur in a world of upcoming millennials while life changes challenge your self perspective. Taking her advice, I did my own 30 day sabbatical and came back a better version of me. Grab this book and map out your own strategy to renewal and reinvention. J Stultz

[Robynne Lozier · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of an advertising art director from Atlanta (Georgia, USA) who lost her job, her spouse, her house and her children, and she went to NYC for a month to "find" them again.

This was a great story!!! I would have given it 5 stars for the story.

But I have a problem with the advertising of this story. So it gets only 3 stars from me.

This book was advertised as the story of Lisa cutting the map of Manhattan into 20 pieces (each piece was 1 square mile) and how she would walk "every square mile" of Manhattan Island.

I grabbed this book because it has pieces of a map on the cover and I LOVE maps.

I did love her walking adventures and the people she met, and her descriptions. They were great.

BUT and this is a HUGE BUT. BUT in chapter 34, she actually admits to having - what did she call it? - Oh yes. "Embellished the truth and painted the grandest possible imagery..." Lisa's own words!!!

Lisa Weldon is an Advertising executive. She is paid to tell lies. I should have guessed.

She deliberately chose to advertise that she "Walked" every single square mile of Manhattan, when in reality she only VISITED every square mile, and maybe only saw or photographed one thing in each area. Granted, she did do a lot of walking, but it was not along every single street on Manhattan island.

If the tag line had been she "VISITED every square mile", I would not have a problem with that at all.

But the fact that she says she WALKED Every square mile, implies that she walked every single metre of sidewalk - which she did not in fact do.

That is FALSE ADVERTISING. She may call it creative licensing, but I call it False advertising.

And that ladies and gentlemen is why I avoid all ads on youtube, and the internet and why I have an adblocker. Because ads and ad executives ALL tell lies.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and couldn't review fast enough. I found this book devastatingly wonderful. Thank you for stepping out of your comfort zone to be completely transparent in your growth. I'm inspired by your story, your willingness to try new things and experiences, and find your renewed purpose. This is a story that proves recreation of your life is truly possible. Thank you for sharing your story.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Weldon takes us on her inward journey during one of her lowest times in life. As her world shrinks and closes in on her, Lisa makes a bold decision to spend thirty days in NYC. With limited resources, a broken heart, and a need to reinvent herself, Lisa pushes herself to the limits, walking the streets in the Big Apple. Determination and creativity begin to open her world again. I felt myself walking beside her the whole thirty days.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book by an amazing woman! This book had me hooked from the beginning. I felt so connected to the story and the city. So impressed by her vulnerability but also self-awareness. Even more inspired by her commitment to her family more importantly - herself!

[BRIAN DANIEL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twenty Pieces is an honest, inspiring, and deeply personal memoir about resilience, self-discovery, and finding a new path when life takes an unexpected turn. Lisa Weldon shares her journey with remarkable openness, showing that reinvention is possible even after experiencing profound loss and uncertainty.

What makes this memoir so powerful is its honesty. Weldon does not simply tell a story about starting over; she explores the difficult emotions that come with losing familiar routines, relationships, financial security, and a sense of identity. Her willingness to share both the struggles and the moments of growth makes the journey feel authentic and relatable.

The idea of spending 30 days walking through New York City becomes more than just a personal challenge—it becomes a way to reconnect with herself, discover new perspectives, and create a future built on her own choices. The city itself feels like a character in the story, providing both inspiration and reflection as Weldon navigates change.

The combination of travel, personal reflection, and professional reinvention creates a memoir that encourages readers to consider their own possibilities for growth and transformation. Weldon's writing captures the uncertainty of change while also celebrating the courage it takes to embrace it.

Twenty Pieces is a heartfelt reminder that endings can become beginnings and that life can still hold meaningful adventures at any stage. A thoughtful and uplifting read for anyone interested in personal growth, resilience, and the power of choosing a new direction.

[Laura Jevtich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twenty Pieces, a memoir by Lisa Weldon
A walk through love, loss and midlife reinvention
This is one the better books I have read so far this year on a woman’s memoir. She talked about a specific point in time, about the impending divorce and her idea of reinventing herself as a marketing person. She basically talks about her year when she was 58. She interweaves her past, her childhood, and her young adult life of marriage with a man whom which she will soon divorce.

One of the major issues I had about the book was the life decisions that were made after marriage rather than before. I kept saying, no girlfriend, don’t get married to him, especially if his ideas and thoughts do not align with your own. But that is the making of a good book.

I did think there was a little too much religion in the book, but that also is to be expected with southern writers, and so cannot fault her for that. I loved the ideas, thoughts, and story itself, and as a native New Jersey gal, all those different neighborhoods were like speaking my language.

I enjoyed the book and would suggest to anyone who is interested in learning a bit about New York, as well as learning a great way to view, write about, and see the city. A great way to reinvent yourself and learn something as well. Well done!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The reader accompanies Lisa as she walks Newwwww Yorrrrrk Citeeeee! (as she writes with unabated glee connecting with her inner child in one chapter!) on a working holiday she takes alone - a city that she has had a passion for since she was very young - she is drawn to it like a magnet when mid-life troubles come to a head in her marriage and circumstances. She divides this iconic city into twenty pieces to be walked and explored. The author skilfully juxtaposes everyday stuff (such as eating, sleeping, drinking etc) with deep personal struggles - this juggling of ordinary everyday events highlights the internal struggle and questions the author is battling with and like a butterfly trying to break free out of a chrysalis she wrestles with guilt, shame, grief, sorrow and other powerful emotions. I enjoyed the way the walk through the city was interspersed with flashbacks to the author's past - this made the memoir more powerful rather than had it been told in a timeline without the NYC walk. It made the issues even more impactful for the reader - the author's baby loss is one such example: one minute you're with the author grabbing a coffee, then you're into the flashback to the tragedy of the baby loss. It demonstrates the power of allowing healing to come through channels that are a challenge and also a heart's desire.

[Marcia reading past dark · Rating 4 out of 5]

At age 58, Lisa Weldon’s life tore apart. With a 25 year marriage headed toward divorce, a repo company hauls away her car, the bank threatens to foreclose on her home, and her three children leaves the nest. Looking in the mirror, she sees the reflection of a woman she barely recognizes. Harsh realities of life provided the elements of a perfect storm that whirl her into a plan to rediscover herself. This book follows Lisa’s 30 day journey, her walk, covering twenty pieces or map sections of New York. Her writing is moving, from descriptions of the heart-wrenching view of the 9/11 Memorial to the spray painted graffiti of Harlem. I especially enjoyed the appetizing accounts of food sold by street vendors. This memoir is for all of us who have ever wanted to find the woman we used to be. It’s only a few steps away, but like Lisa’s experience, the journey will take time, some silence, and a spirit of purpose. (And a good pair of walking shoes!)

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a child of New York from the 50’s through the 70’s. Ms. Weldon’s book brought back so many memories of when I too, walked the streets of Manhattan. It was a different, more innocent time but the memories linger to this day. There is an energy and vitality that New York has that no place else does. It is a wonderful place to get lost in and yet find yourself at the end. Ms. Weldon shares her life with the reader, both the good and the bad and begins to make and take advantage of her self awareness in relation to the wider world. Too many people stay locked in their life boxes because they were expected to fit into some kind of parental and societal norms. I admire her spunk and ability to grow. I would have liked to meet more of the people she encountered which I think would have added a bit more depth to the story, but overall a solid read.

I was given this book in return for an honest review.

[Christine Somers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twenty Pieces works on multiple levels. First it is a first person love letter to the City and people of New York. Weldon captures the essence of the place by her portraits of the city through classic vignettes of life in the vibrant communities of Manhattan. She see the city through the eyes of one who loves New York. Second, she shares her current struggle with the life she has built and its unraveling. Spending 30 days in NYC was a cleansing breath of life as she ask the hard questions, "How did I get here." And finally, she dissects the assumptions of the past passed down by generations and gives an insightful look at middle class America from the 1950s to 2010.

[Judy Middleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It would be no easy task to bare your soul to the world at large; it’s the stuff giants are made of. Come alongside this engaging author as she tries out her voice in a desperate time and finds she has agency. She’s no coward and although the world promises to be against her during this unprecedented financial collapse, she refuses to give up.

If you are lacking in courage in any way, pick up this book and be prepared to be inspired. Easy to read, hard to put down and brimming with humor and candor.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve realized I’m not a fan of memoirs. I’m a big believer in personal introspection and feel most people need to spend a great deal more time engaging in it but I don’t always enjoy hearing or reading about the results from strangers. I’ve always been a walker and that is when I do most introspection; it is why I prefer to walk alone.

This book provides some interesting details on little known things in NYC. It is an interesting concept and goes into areas I’ve never been to in NY. NYC is a great walking city and everyday you will see something new.

[Beverly Willett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weldon bravely takes the reins of her life! Bravo!

Lisa's memoir was deeply resonant with so much in my own journey of starting over after divorce. Those first days of wading through the mire, uncertain of what's happening and whether to keep going and the fear of the unknown are tough ones. I appreciated the author's vivid descriptions and deep honesty. As a former New Yorker, I also enjoyed reliving many of my own own walks around Manhattan. Bravo!

[Elora Canne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A memoir of reinvention, self-discovery and adventure!

Lisa is not afraid to dig deep into her past and embrace the uncomfortable feelings of confronting memories that haunt her. She emerges with a future bursting with promise and personal growth.

She achieves this through a 30 day challenge walking every inch of Manhatten while learning about life, love and letting go.

Highly recommended as there is something for everyone to learn from.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story—not only was it an adventure around New York (and made me want to visit there again), but it was also an inspiring memoir. Lisa shared powerful reflections on growing up in the south, her marriage, work, and life. I appreciate that she challenged her perceptions and stayed open to new ideas and possibilities in her life.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest look into the mind and soul of someone at the end of one part of her life and beginning of another. New York is not only the backdrop of this tale but also a character in itself. Lisa really leaned into her reinvention and it shows. Great read for anyone who feels a little (or a lot) lost in life.

[Lizbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twenty Pieces is not only a journey in search of the self, it is also a journey of turning an experience into written memoir. The process of creation is much like the process of reclamation. How we select and edit our stories reflects the way we select and edit our memories. I highly recommend this book as a study in courage on both levels.

[DonnaC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liked this book. Life, love, loss, redemption, reinvention, acceptance, aging ... it is all there. Most interesting part of the book, and the section that I am continuing to think about after finishing, is the art project "Before I Die." Very thought provoking book.

[Ekords · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a reminder that at any point in your life you can reimagine and redefine yourself, and humility and courage go a long way. An inspirational and easygoing read; this author did a great job of painting the picture and it played out like a movie in my head.

[Guy Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa a is a friend of mine and a great author. He stories are fascinating and for authors, her first sentence is perfect. She helped me a bunch as I was writing my book The Only Witness: A History of the Shroud of Turin. I enjoyed reading about her travels around New York.

[Carole Landry · Rating 3 out of 5]

At the age of 50 when her children are leaving home, her marriage is failing and her home is being foreclosed, Lisa makes the fateful decision to leave her Atlanta business and move to New York City for 30 days to see if she can find herself again.

[G.A. Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written book. It's honest and comes to terms with the good, bad and ugly that stays with us until we're ready to let them go. I really enjoyed not only the message, but the trip through NYC. What a great road map for a story. The writing is wonderful, the message is inspirational. This is a yes! Loved it!!

[Nic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I really enjoyed this book and going along for Lisa's journey.

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked. The journey the author takes you through is vulnerable and magnificent. I thoroughly enjoyed this memoir start to finish!