by Judd Apatow
First published 2013
Pete and Debbie face their fortieth birthdays while their marriage strains under mounting pressures. Pete struggles to keep his record label afloat as digital music decimates his business. Debbie manages her clothing boutique while suspecting an employee of theft. Their two daughters create daily chaos, from playground conflicts to teenage attitude. Pete's aging father moves in after health problems, adding another layer of stress to their crowded household. Debbie's own parents demand attention and financial support. The couple fights over money, sex, and parenting decisions. Pete escapes into fantasy baseball and bathroom iPad sessions. Debbie obsesses over organic food and exercise routines. Their arguments escalate from petty grievances to deeper resentments about dreams deferred and youth lost. Yet between the shouting matches and sleepless nights, moments of genuine connection emerge. This Is 40 captures how Pete and Debbie discover what it takes for a family to survive the messy middle of life together.
Genres: romance, contemporary, comedy, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, second-chance
Period: 21st-Century
176 pages · ebook · Newmarket for It Books
Content warnings: anxiety, depression, mental-illness