Spark Joy Book Review

I waited on the reserve list for a long time for this book because it is so popular.  Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up by Marie Kondō was finally in.  I knew that I had to read it pretty quickly because I wouldn't be able to renew because there were so many holds.  The shortened deadline helped to get that reading fit in shortly after finishing my last book.  I was really behind in my book pile and I might have over gotten the books at the library without remembering how many I requested to review so we have a backlog pile of books.  I might have to quit my job to catch up :)

Japanese decluttering guru Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up has revolutionized homes—and lives—across the world. Now, Kondo presents an illustrated guide to her acclaimed KonMari Method, with step-by-step folding illustrations for everything from shirts to socks, plus drawings of perfectly organized drawers and closets. She also provides advice on frequently asked questions, such as whether to keep “necessary” items that may not bring you joy. With guidance on specific categories including kitchen tools, cleaning supplies, hobby goods, and digital photos, this comprehensive companion is sure to spark joy in anyone who wants to simplify their life.

This is the second book in the series and I read the first so I wanted to read the second book.  I wasn't a huge favorite read because it just didn't feel like it was my same mentality.  Although it is wonderful that she wants to cut down on clutter and things to make your life easier, the method she follows just doesn't fit with my thought process.  I am not into fung shui so many of the things about touching things and where hot and cold areas are don't really ring true to my thought process.  I put things where I need to use them for the most functionality.  Although I thought that this book had a lot more details and pictures then the first book...although I am not sure if you would get all her ideas out of the book and it doesn't stand on its own so you have to read the first book first.  This book gave a lot more pictures on how she wants you to fold your clothes and fit into the drawers.  She prefers plastic drawers in the closet where I really like wooden dressers in the room which add warmth to the room. 

She does like reusing items that aren't being used in the house but for the most part, I see bags and bags of items leaving the house (hopefully for donation).  I hope that this book helps you to get more organized and purge the items you no longer need if you read it.  I did start to get motivated to pull everything out of the basement storage and start selling my items that we no longer use.  I sold baby and kid clothes, my son's old shoes, swimming vest, Thomas the Train holder, and stroller.  I made $80 so far with more coming if I get some other pictures taken and things posted online.  I know that this is why I can't just get rid of item because I know that there is money to be made and then my house will be more cleared out.  If I keep chipping away at it then this can made up the added income that we can use since I won't be working all summer and clean out the house at the same time.  It might have been motivated in part by the consignment sales and part by the book but either way, hoping that I can get rid of some more things and make some more room in the basement.  Let me know what you think of it!!