I borrowed the book from our library and finished it last night. It was a quick and, for the most part, fun read although I think she really got bogged down in politics from the Sept chapter on. I know she tried to connect politics to consumption, but I felt that it really detracted from the book. I just don't agree with the idea that the government is somehow responsible for our society being materialistic, hyper-consumers.

But despite the fact that I disagree with her politically, I thought the author did a very good job of presenting a balanced view of consumerism and simplicity. I really enjoyed reading her thoughts about gift giving, and the parts about voluntary simplicity gave me a lot to think about. I think she's right that ecological awareness is not as much a driving force behind voluntary simplicity as it seems it should be.

Finally, I am really impressed that she was actually able to go a whole year without buying anything except a shirt and pair of pants. The self discipline needed to be able to spend the entire year without paying for entertainment, dining out or even a cup of coffee is extremely admirable to me.

After reading the book, I don't necessarily feel the need to do an experiment just like her since I don't think buying things is inherently wrong. However, it does make me more resolved to be a smart consumer. To buy only what is going to enhance my life and to mindful of where my money is going, who it is supporting and how it is impacting our world.

I'm dying to hear what others thought of the book. Please share!

Well, for me the book was inspirational enough that I decided to try not to buy anything but necessities for 2007. Not so much as a statement or experiment, but to examine my own habits really closely and make changes in how and why I spend money and energy.

Judith is a local - our main nearby town is Hardwick, I shop at that co-op, I know people she knows. So for me there was a vicarious thrill in seeing "my town" in the book, and I thought her take on it a very interesting and insightful one.

I also felt the political part was a bit yawn-inducing, but only because I've studied it on my own, and because I prefer reading her narrative to researched information. However I thought she did a great job of writing it out so it's understandable and cohesive, and I commend her for that.

I love that she wasn't preachy, or holier-than-thou, or so incredibly perfect at not buying that you hate her, LOL. She is very down to earth and honest with herself. I also thought that her perspective on voluntary simplicity was absolutely fresh and eye-opening. She really hit on something that hadn't been examined in that way before (or I'd never read it, if so).

What else? I just love her writing style. :)

I have this book on hold at the library...I am like 20th on the list. :lol: I would love to discuss it after I read it.

I didn't really care for the book to be totally honest. I have a lot of the same political views but I think she could have jumped off that soapbox after a few chapters.

I guess I was also bothered that instead of trying to scale back or use their space they were adding on. I didn't see any information or statistics that I hadn't already seen in other books. I found her section on the simplicity group to be condescending and trite.

I certainly applaud her for her experiment and am glad that it's sparking conversation and others to try their own variations.

That is so cool mamabear! Have you ever run into her? Her writing is very engaging, and for the most part, I didn't think she was preachy. That was refreshing because I went into the book expecting to be chastised repeatedly for being a consumer.

Kaight, I agree about the addition. I had to go back and re-read that section twice to make sure I understood it. I couldn't believe that they were doubling the size of their home at the same time they weren't buying anything!

Well, what y'all said. I think it got too political-ranty. I think more neutrality would have contributed to the book, honestly. She did a nice job researching the book, and I really enjoyed the balance in certain areas.

I really enjoyed just hearing about her struggles, her irrational relationship with stuff, and the point she eventually reached where buying wasn't a huge, important part of her life. That's why I'm here - to explore that.

I did find the renovation thing odd. And the $55 "needed" haircut. Huh? Now, I didn't take her solemn vow, but I know perfectly darn well the tattoo I'll be getting in Asheville is sooo not a necessity, and I see $55 haircuts as frivolous, too. $10 haircuts at Fantastic Sams are pushing it, if one is really shooting for just essentials.

When I want to explore the necessity of something, I have to ask myself if Grandma and her mother would see it as a necessity during depression times. Great grandma would have cut grandma's hair, and vice versa.

I'm glad I read it, but I like Amy Dacyzyn a lot better. :joker:

I'm interested in why so many of these books come from that little corner of the country. I have my theories, and it's not that yankees are the only people who know how to live that way. Believe me, the South is flooded with people who can make do or do without.

and I was floored at how since she stopped spending money she was able to pay off an $8K credit card in 6 mos! She was one serious spendthrift eh?

I laughed at her politics and I liked the fact that I could relate to how hard it is not to spend money on things I don't need! She seems very likeable!

Now she has no children and both she and her partner had real estate when they met so her situation is different but I found it an enjoyable read from my local library!

The title of her book irked my white Republican in-laws! They are sure that spending money is helping our economy! You know W said to go shopping after 911 if you wanted to help the country! Bwa ha ha ha!

Sincerely,
Debra, homeschooling mom of 4 ages 10 (AS), 9, 7, and 43 mos (Autism)