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
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