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Title: Living the Simple Life: Guide to Scaling Down and Enjoying More by Elaine St. James ISBN: 0-7868-8242-5 Publisher: Hyperion Pub. Date: 08 July, 1998 Format: Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $9.95 |
Average Customer Rating: 4.05 (20 reviews)
Rating: 2
Summary: Living the Simple Life
Comment: Elaine St. James offers many practical tips to simplfy your life. Many are just plain common sense. Whilst reading her book, I couldn't get over the feeling that the author seems to be lacking spiritual depth in her commitment to the simple life. She and her husband Gibbs, seem to be very wrapped up in their little world. They both have already achieved financial success with their careers; its obvious they are not hurting for money. They have already lived in the fancy house, driven the luxury car, worn the designer clothes and got tired of all the trappings. I do not dispute that many of the authors suggestions are worthwhile and offer the reader some food for thought, however I think if you are looking for a book that deals with simplicity on more of a spirtual path, I would look elsewhere.
Rating: 4
Summary: A Good Place To Begin
Comment: This book would be a good place to start for anyone just starting to consider scaling down and simplifying life - or even for someone who is just curious about the whole idea. It is a very basic book, and for people who've already made significant changes towards more simple living, it won't be very useful. But if you are overworked, stressed out, buried in clutter and feel you don't have a moment for yourself, pick up this book! It would be a good place to begin.
Most of what the author recommends, our family already does. Some of it IS common sense, but most of it is "counter cultural" and many of us wouldn't think of doing these things on our own. I think she has some really good ideas. She is also a good example of someone who has lived an extremely successful, hectic life and moved toward a more simple existence - without depriving herself of anything she truly values.
I agree with another reviewer that she's a little "misanthropic" - she does seem to consider people "clutter" and to be quick to recommend ditching the humans in your life. While this can sometimes be good advice with certain individuals, I truly value my family, friends, and "houseguests" [which she implies are always "unwanted"]. I would not care for a life without these dear ones - simple or no. Sometimes people are messy, and sometimes we do need to move on from damaging relationships; but in general human companionship is worth the "complications" in my opinion.
This is a good general "beginners guide to the simple life" and is also a very quick and easy read - good for mommies like me [and others] who have to do their reading in 5 minute snatches here and there!
Rating: 5
Summary: Simple and Good
Comment: No, this is not a book about time management. At least not directly. I do many of those things and still have had a hard time finding time. I have been trying to simplify my life, and this book is a good route. As the author points out, it does not mean moving into a shanty in the woods miles from anyone.
There are many good suggestions and good examples. It is simple to read and can be read five minutes at a time without losing the train of thought.
In addition to simplifying and reducing stress, you may find yourself spending less, saving more, more time with your family and be happier as well. Recommended.
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Title: Simplify Your Life: 100 Ways to Slow Down & Enjoy the Things That Really.... by Elaine St. James ISBN: 0786880007 Publisher: Hyperion Pub. Date: 01 May, 1994 List Price(USD): $9.95 |
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Title: Inner Simplicity: 100 Ways to Regain Peace and Nourish Your Souls by Elaine St. James ISBN: 078688097X Publisher: Hyperion Pub. Date: 04 May, 1995 List Price(USD): $9.95 |
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Title: Simplify Your Work Life: Ways to Change the Way You Work So You Have More Time to Live by Elaine St. James ISBN: 0786885963 Publisher: Hyperion Pub. Date: 02 January, 2002 List Price(USD): $9.95 |
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Title: The Simple Living Guide by Janet Luhrs ISBN: 0553067966 Publisher: Broadway Books Pub. Date: 03 November, 1997 List Price(USD): $21.95 |
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Title: Simplify Your Life With Kids by Elaine St. James, Vera Cole ISBN: 0740706640 Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing Pub. Date: 15 March, 2000 List Price(USD): $10.95 |
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