Happenstance by Thomas Chamberlain
Reviewed by James M. Fisher
John Lennon’s well-known statement, “Life is what happens when you’re making other plans,” is undoubtedly appropriate when discussing the plot of Happenstance.
A tenth grader named Darby Saunders has a big idea. Her father has been sexually assaulting her for years, especially after he has had alcohol. She makes the decision on Thursday night that this will be the last time the “Monster” treats her in this way. She has been considering this for some time, so her entire plan is not a last-minute choice. Before acting, she has a list of things she needs to do.
Despite her intelligence, Darby keeps her head down in class so no one will notice her. She keeps her grades high, but not as high as they could be. She also plays the saxophone. Her sole friend is Sara, a star basketball player who aspires to become a doctor. Because she is a good student, Darby’s teachers like her and frequently overlook her absences from class or even excuse her from an exam they know she will ace.
She does a good job of hiding her shame and her secret.
Her carefully considered plans are disrupted by “life” on a Friday morning. Since Darby is so flexible, she plans to follow her list, making minor adjustments as needed, but Sunday is still the day of action.
I won’t reveal any more details about the plot to prevent any spoilers. I should point out that the circumstances do not make for a comedy of errors. In contrast, this brief novel—which isn’t quite short enough to be a novella—has a profound emotional impact. When it comes to her list, Darby is serious. Because the timeline is condensed to a few days and the tension is high throughout, this book was one that I read from beginning to end in one sitting.
Happenstance is Thomas Chamberlain’s debut novel, but I do hope he will write more in the future. It is clear that his decades of teaching experience have given him a unique perspective on the high school student’s world, which differs greatly from my high school experience, many decades ago.
This book should be available to counsellors and students alike, as Darby’s situation is one that requires acknowledgment and candid conversation.
About the Author
Thomas Chamberlain is a retired teacher. His career spanned 33 years. He taught elementary school in Plaster Rock and high school in Quispamsis New Brunswick. His final three years before retirement were spent teaching Inuit children in a small community on the shores of Hudson’s Bay. Throughout Thomas' career, he had a reputation for innovation and creativity in teaching.
He currently lives in the Kennebecasis Valley with his partner Denise and their Labrador Retriever, Islay.
Happenstance is his first novel.
About the Reviewer
James M. Fisher is the Editor-in-Chief of The Seaboard Review of Books. He resides in Miramichi, New Brunswick, with his wife, Diane, their tabby cat, Eddie, and Buster, their Border Collie. James also works as an MRI technologist at the Miramichi Hospital.
Book Details
Publisher : Galleon Books
Publication date : Nov. 30 2025
Language : English
Print length : 170 pages
ISBN-10 : 1998122271
ISBN-13 : 978-1998122271