Wanted to like it...

I like that these guys are spreading the message of minimalism, but there are other much better books on the subject.* Overall, the book is awkward. It doesn't help that Millburn's narration is flat. He sounds bored and a bit sad. And Nicodemus seems sidelined with providing only snippy remarks. I give them credit for making his book happen as taking on the task of writing a book and actually finishing it is no easy feat. But unfortunately, the book really falls short. Many other reviewers mention the very things about the book that donned not work for me: the repetitiveness of irrelevant information, the overly flowery descriptions (it as, after all, a book on minimalism), the need to use obscure words to impress the reader (also unnecessary), and the attitude towards women seems juvenile. I wanted to like this book and I tried to get through it, but in the end, I was ready to move on to something else. *Try "Goodbye Things" by Sasaki - that's a book that really rang true from begging to end.

80 people found this helpful

Audio is best format for this

Big overlap with their podcast content but this is a good telling of how The Minimalists became The Minimalists, although it’s mostly about Joshua’s journey. I think the audio version is probably the best format because Ryan’s words are handled as footnotes, and in the audio version, they are read right where they should go, maintaining the flow better, IMO. Grade: A-

Excellent narration.

42 people found this helpful

helping me reach some goals in tidying/minimizing

After seeing Minimalism a Documentary (2-3 times), I became inspired to get this book. I listened to it on Audible since I've been very busy. It was actually really fun to hear it after than reading myself, and I accomplished several tasks to tidy my house while listening. I had specific goals in mind this weekend, but I knew I would struggle with doing them before dinner time, as I am a "structured procrastinator". Listening to it as I walked in and out of the speaker room really pushed me to keep going with organizing and discarding items. I also did some hobbies while listening, and it was relaxing, not overwhelming, to my surprise. The only thing I was a little surprised about is I expected to hear more on recycling and reusing, but it's possible I missed a moment. Plus, I know that sustainability is not everyone's priority and that's not the point of the book. Overall, great book and excellent mission and purpose. Thanks for reading...

31 people found this helpful

You don't possess your possessions, they possess u

I give this book 3.5 stars. The first half of the book was dull. It was a shallow recollection of the hard times in the author's life (what prompted his minimalist journey) - an alcoholic mother, her early death from cancer, and his failed marriage. He doesn't even mention what led to the divorce other than that it was a good marriage, but not a great marriage (yawn... hardly a page-turner). Then there are interruptions, interjections, and comments from his friend inserted into the first-person narrative. Like a private joke known only between friends, most of these smart-alecky insertions aren't amusing to outsiders. The second half of the book is okay. Some of it is interesting (going from Brooks Brothers suits and a high-paying corporate job to a tiny apartment and no television). It prompts you to reflect on your own life and all your material possessions - things you have to pay off, things you have to keep organized, and things you have to clean. Soon you don't possess your possessions, they possess you.

25 people found this helpful

Minimalism for the real world

Some people might be turned off by this if they feel like they're being pushed into getting rid of all material things, but that's not the message I got from the book at all. I work in the D.C. Metro area and can tell you I see a lot of the same things Josh and Ryan talk about, namely never being satisfied. Always wanting more, more, more. I first heard of them through a Netflix documentary as I really enjoyed it so I went ahead and got the book. I'm very glad I did! It was totally worth the read (or the listen as it were). I appreciated the perspective of keeping your wants in check and separating those from actual needs. Highly recommend it!

17 people found this helpful

Lackluster

This was mediocre at best. T t e narrator had little to zero inflection in his voice. If they wanted someone that sounded similar to Josh, then why didn’t Josh just narrate his own book. I have been listening to their podcast for a few years and this is the first audiobook I’ve listened to from them and as a whole it lacked substance. The writing was decent in being descriptive. The same narrator voice for Ryan was super annoying. I don’t think I can succumb to purchasing another one of their books. This was just blah!

14 people found this helpful

Fast and furious

I loved this. While I have never actually heard the author's real voice I certainly enjoyed the narration. Probably an eight hour book, the narrator speaks quickly, so listen fast for the about five and a half hours he takes reading. I enjoyed the book content. JFM is as transparent as the finest crystal. He discusses his weaknesses as well as his own strengths. Turning 60 six months ago was a serious issue with me. This book reminds me, it's never too late to change everything.

13 people found this helpful

Excellent Story

The story, writing style, and narration are all fantastic. Very enjoyable and impactful. I have read it four times already.

9 people found this helpful

Change Narrator

I listen to the podcast frequently and was disappointed the narrator lacked enthusiasm and had minimalist voice inflection and varying tones. Couldn’t finish the audiobook because of the narration.

6 people found this helpful

So inspiring!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend this to anyone frustrated with the seemingly endless "work to live" grind or in any way disenchanted with the so-called "American Dream." This story gently and genuinely leads the reader towards a new way of thinking.

What about Justin Malik’s performance did you like?

Interesting and unique but highly listenable.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The gradual shifts in awareness that eventually transformed their lives.

6 people found this helpful