I put off reading this book (even though I'd heard such good things about it) because I'm naturally quite organized and minimalist.

I actually really liked it, though! True, most of what she advises I'm already doing, but her positive attitude made this an enjoyable read, and she does go into a little more depth than just "keep only what brings you joy" (which was the gist I'd gathered from others talking about her method). Now I know what book to recommend to friends complaining about the states of their homes! :)

Her treatment of inanimate objects as living was a little strange, but I liked the emphasis on appreciating one's belongings. While I won't soon be thanking my possessions for doing a good job, I liked the reminder to thank God for providing my things (I'm a Christian) and recognize that Christ wants me to experience the freedom He gave me, which I won't if I'm a slave to my possessions, unwilling to part with them.

There are mentions of spiritualism, Buddhism, Hinduism, etc. and two pages are dedicated to helping readers involved in these things to create a shrine for charms, talismans, etc., but this is not the bulk of the book. ( )

get rid of things that don't bring you joy. ( )

**I read this in one sitting, according to my texts to my mother right before and after, and it was almost exactly 2hrs 40mins. On my Kindle it was 208 pages.

This was a strangely emotional read. I wasn’t expecting to feel so connected to this book. I am yet to start the process, but I am definitely looking forward to it. One thing that particularly stood out in my mind as I was reading that “sparks joy” for me is my Venture scouts uniform. It makes me happy looking at it hanging on the back of my door right now, I feel proud of myself and I honestly would love to just put it on right now. And when I thought of that, I understood the feeling that I will be going for in a day or two when I begin the transformation, or “celebration”. ( )

I thought I'd revisit this as I remember finding it very compelling when I first read it years ago and managed to do some decluttering although not to Kondo's level. It was interesting listening now as I have more limitations than I did then, so this project will only work if you have help as she never even talks about what to do with all the stuff you're getting rid of. Still I'm on a current kick of trying to jump start my next decluttering work needed, and so it was fun to see where Marie Kondo started. ( )

I love Marie Kondo. Her show...she is not quite what I expected. For those who want to know step-by-step how to tidy, this is your book. ( )