Secrets of Happiness Summary
Joan Silber

Secrets of Happiness Overview

Joan Sibler's novel Secrets of Happiness is written from Ethan, Joe, Maribel, Rachel, Bud, and Tar's first person points of view. Through this complex network of narrative voices, Sibler tells the story of two interconnected families, and their complex familial and romantic dynamics. When Ethan discovers his father has had another family for nearly two decades, he is unsure how to respond. As for his narrative counterparts, familial change begets personal exploration. The novel explores themes including family, money, and love.