*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Title: Spark Joy
Author: Marie Kondo
Publisher: Ten Speed Press
Publication Date: January 5, 2016
ISBN: 9781607749721
Synopsis from Goodreads:
Marie Kondo’s unique KonMari Method of tidying up is nothing short of life-changing—and her first book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, has become a worldwide sensation. In Spark Joy, Kondo presents an in-depth, illustrated manual on how to declutter and organize specific items throughout the house, from kitchen and bathroom items to work-related papers and hobby collections. User-friendly line drawings illustrate Kondo’s patented folding method as it applies to shirts, pants, socks, and jackets, as well as images of properly organized drawers, closets, and cabinets. This book is perfect for anyone who wants a home—and life—that sparks joy.
I really wish I could have enjoyed this book, but this turned into one that I could not finish. I will admit right off the bat that I have not read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and perhaps if I had, I would feel a little differently about Kondo’s book. I will also start off by saying that I am a very tidy person to begin with. I clean on a weekly basis and my fiance and I are constantly bringing loads of goods to Value Village or Goodwill. Purging is a part of our monthly schedule. I love nicknacks that tell a story, but I hate clutter and I strongly dislike having to dust many thing. So our home is tidy. It’s not minimal, and I’m sure there are things that we could get rid of, but we’re neat and comfortable.
Kondo’s book for me was so basic, that I couldn’t read it all the way through. I did end up putting this one back on the shelf. I had such a hard time taking the advice seriously and I couldn’t help but see the approach to be a little juvenile. A few of the anecdotes refer back to the authors childhood tidying habit to add a bit of colour to the over all advice. It didn’t hold my attention and I really can’t get on board with the KonMari Method of holding each object in my home to feel if it brings me joy. I’m sure for the person who does not enjoy or is not able to stay on top of tidying, this book is a very good guide, starting with the very basics. Kondo will walk you through each part of the process, step by step. The illustrations are helpful and kind of cutesy but they’re a little too young for my taste.
Not one for me, but I can see why people like it. Perhaps you’ll have more luck with it than I did.
Worn Pages and Ink 