Positive psychologist and author Barbara Becker Holstein has announced a temporary free ebook giveaway of her bestselling novel and revealed details about an upcoming film that explores marital dynamics through psychological lenses. Her novel 'Women's Freedom, Unfinished Love Stories' will be available at no charge in e-book form on January 31 through February 1, 2026, offering readers insight into the struggles and desires of young women in the 1960s through the experiences of three college students.
The book serves as a mirror to the experiences of women throughout history, highlighting universal longings and challenges that have shaped previous generations. Holstein's exploration encourages readers to reflect on their own rights, needs, and the societal influences that have shaped their perceptions, with the author emphasizing that fair treatment and understanding are keys to a future filled with self-discovery and emotional growth.
Simultaneously, Holstein has announced the upcoming release of her new film 'I Had an Affair with My Husband,' scheduled for early 2026. The film demonstrates that fantasy and romance can play important roles in creating lasting relationships, following a typical married couple who discover new dimensions in their marriage when the husband accidentally becomes the man his wife adores. The film explores both the problems and fun that emerge from this transformation, with Holstein noting that she and her husband, both psychologists, felt a responsibility to explore what they were experiencing in their own relationship.
Holstein explained the film's development process, stating that their personal story was first written down, then adapted into a script, and finally into a movie script. The film features actors Justin L. Wilson and Jessica Miano Kruel portraying the couple's experiences, with Holstein emphasizing that the project shows both the positive and challenging aspects of adopting new personas within a relationship. She noted that while life can become full of fun when not abused, marriages and relationships can become very stale without elements of play and imagination.
As a school psychologist and in her private practice, Dr. Holstein has worked with many children and parents, helping them develop life skills in decision-making and recognition of their own talents. Her work extends beyond traditional psychology through various media formats, including six bestselling books, four self-esteem workbooks for girls, award-winning films, podcasts, and dedicated websites. Her latest workbook for kids, 'Secrets,' achieved bestseller status in the 'Teen & Young Adult Nonfiction on Depression' category.
Holstein's innovative approaches include The Selfie Showcase, a project emerging from The Selfie Project that allows young people ages 13 to 18 to voice their opinions on important subjects through selfie videos or films. This initiative addresses issues young people face by giving them opportunities to engage with others about anxiety and stress. More information about this project is available at http://www.selfiefilmmakers.com, where selfie videos and films can be uploaded.
Holstein's work represents a significant intersection of psychological insight and accessible media, making complex concepts about relationships, self-esteem, and emotional growth available to broader audiences through engaging formats. Her approach to wrapping Positive Psychology concepts in media that people find engaging and relatable has established her as a distinctive voice in both psychological and creative circles, with her Enchanted Self website recognized as one of the best websites in positive psychology. Additional information about her work is available at her primary website http://www.enchantedself.com.
