February 2020 Book Club Discussion – The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up

Welcome back to month two! If you are new here, it’s exciting that you are joining in on the discussion. It is time to talk about The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo (commissioned link). What did you thing? Did you go on a stuff purging and organizing journey? I did!

My kids bedrooms got a good cleaning–under the beds and all! I streamlined my dresser drawers and hanging clothes. Tackled the utility closet. Said goodbye to outdated or stale food in the pantry. Overall, it was a productive month. And yes, I did have to “thank” a few things that no longer “sparked joy”.

So, tell us thoughts. Trials? Successes? For those using this book as a book club, here are some questions to get you started.

1. Did you tidy your home after reading this book? Why or why not?
2. What was your favorite tidying tip? Which piece of advice just didn’t work for you?
3. Was there a particular item that was hard to get rid of or you just couldn’t let go? What were the easiest thing(s) to give away?
4. Do you believe that items actually “spark joy”? What about the items needed for functionality–like a can opener?
5. Marie Kondo references cultural difference between Japanese homes and American homes. What would you say are the biggest takeaways from these acknowledgements?
6. The idea of downsizing and going tiny–like the Netflix show Tiny House Nation— seems so appealing to many. Would you want to go tiny? Does having less stuff bring happiness?

Thanks to those that joined us in February on this collective read. Please share your thoughts in the comments. This is an ongoing, open discussion thread.

If you missed January’s post, but have read or want to read  The Guest Book  by Sarah Blake (commissioned link), follow the link to the discussion questions and leave your thoughts!

For March, 365 Days of New is reading The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates (commissioned link). This book is a mix between historical fiction and fantasy. The main character, Hiram, is born on a slave plantation. At a young age, he realizes he has a photographic memory, yet doesn’t remember his mother who was sold when Hiram was young. The story progresses when Hiram’s ability to “walk on water” saves his life. If this storying piques your interest, join me at the end of the month to discuss.

Check out all of 365 Days of New’s 2020 book club choices here.