Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

The Empty Nest Blueprint by Anthony Damaschino offers a fascinating insight into an area of our lives that we often give little thought to until suddenly it is upon us and we find ourselves on uncertain ground. The author explains the stages of preparation, execution, and recovery for parents when their children leave home, be it for college, work, or a relationship. He examines the emotions, actions, and sometimes regrets of those left behind. He also compiles a comprehensive checklist and strategies for dealing with the sudden change from being an active parent to children taking responsibility for their own lives and you and/or your partner suddenly having to face the future alone or as a couple again. He outlines the phases of facing an empty nest situation and how best to ensure your child’s departure will not derail your life, relationship, or future plans. Most importantly, he points out that a period many look forward to with anticipation has several snares to be aware of and avoid. 

As a parent who has experienced empty nest syndrome and unashamedly admits to having handled it poorly, I can only lament that The Empty Nest Blueprint was not available then. Anthony Damaschino approaches this subject with academic stricture, which gives his work the ring of authenticity and authority. I particularly appreciated his focus on the existing relationship between the two adult partners which can easily be allowed to drift apart during child rearing, with each partner settling into their routine and possibly forgetting about simple things like appreciation of a partner’s efforts, their needs, and what they bring to the relationship. Many of us experienced something similar during the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns when we were forced to share our lives 24/7 with our partners. I liked the practical exercises and questions the author posed. These will greatly help readers come to terms with an impending empty nest situation and allow them to plan for their financial and emotional survival during this time. This is an immensely useful book on a topic that has received scant attention to date and the author deserves considerable plaudits. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It enabled me to pinpoint the things I did wrong when my children flew the nest. I highly recommend it.