Jack Gladney, professor of Hitler studies at The-College-on-the-Hill, husband to Babette, and father to four children/stepchildren, is torn asunder by a chemical spill from a rail car that releases an "Airborne Toxic Event" forcing Jack to confront his biggest fear - his own mortality.

Charlie and Lisa, two divorced parents in their 40's who find themselves at a midlife crossroads. Both are single parents and they have four complicated teenagers.