This is a virtual bookclub for any caregiver featuring The Unexpected Journey (Caregiver Edition) by Emma Heming Wills.
WEEK 1 —
“Opening the Door”
Reading: Chapters 1–2
Caregiver Lens:
What it feels like to begin something new when life is already full
Naming the emotional load we carry into the journey
Activities:
Icebreaker: “If your caregiving life were a suitcase, what’s one thing inside it today?”
Gentle grounding moment to settle into the space
Group intention setting
WEEK 2 —
“First Steps, Small Courage”
Reading: Chapters 3–4
Caregiver Lens:
Early challenges and the courage required to keep going
How small decisions shape the path ahead
Activities:
Reflection prompt: “What small act of courage did you take this week?”
Pair‑share breakout rooms
WEEK 3 —
“Allies, Helpers, and Heartbeats”
Reading: Chapters 5–6
Caregiver Lens:
The importance of support systems
Recognizing who refills our cup
Activities:
Journaling: “Who shows up for you, and how do you know when you need help?”
Group discussion on boundaries and receiving support
WEEK 4 —
“The Middle of the Map”
Reading: Chapters 7–8
Caregiver Lens:
The messy middle: doubt, fatigue, and unexpected clarity
How caregiving reshapes identity
Activities:
Creative prompt: “Draw or describe your ‘middle of the map’ moment.”
Small‑group conversation on resilience
WEEK 5 —
“Turning Points & Truth Telling”
Reading: Chapters 9–10
Caregiver Lens:
Emotional turning points and moments of truth
What the protagonist learns about themselves — and what we learn about ourselves
Activities:
Reflection: “What truth about yourself has caregiving revealed?”
Group discussion on courage, compassion, and self‑forgiveness
WEEK 6 —
“Returning Home Changed” + Virtual Snack Party
Reading: Chapters 11–End
Caregiver Lens:
Transformation, identity, and what we carry forward
How journeys — fictional and real — reshape us
Activities:
Bring‑your‑snack celebration
Round‑robin reflection: “This journey changed me by…”
Closing affirmation circle
Optional “souvenir share”: a quote, insight, or moment they’re taking with them