Simplicity seems to be the latest buzzword. Everyone wants to simplify, remove clutter, and appreciate the beauty in the simple things. Extravagant is out while elegant is in. I, personally, am attracted to the idea of simplicity because it sounds like there will be less tripping over sneakers around the house and definitely like less dusting. You see, I am a packrat. I have keepsakes stored in every closet, drawers and boxes of craft supplies, and stacks upon stacks of paperwork. I have a hard time letting go of things because I'm sure that I might use them someday. In the meantime, clutter takes over my cupboards and closets, and my stress-level rises.

I jumped at a chance to read a book dedicated to simplicity. I've read several in the past that were inspiring, but they've also seemed completely unattainable. The Rewards of Simplicity takes a completely different approach to this topic than any book I've read before. Rather than diving into my closet, the authors dove right into my heart. Through faith, focus, and function, the authors help readers work through their spiritual clutter and onward toward seeking the Kingdom of God. Fasting, loving, and resting are studied as our means to attaining spiritual simplicity. Material possessions aren't even mentioned until halfway through the book! At this point, many helpful tips are shared for working through the physical clutter around us. But now there is a whole new motivation.

The second portion of the book tackles the topic of anxiety, one I've never seen covered in a book on simplicity before. Chuck Pierce helps readers recognize anxiety and how to work through it. He explains how to make stress work for us and does a great job at putting things into perspective. It's certainly a different approach than any I've seen before, but I believe the unique nature of the approach will make it more effective. The book contains many personal anecdotes to illustrate points, often making it feel like more of an autobiography than a manual for simplicity. At times I found this tiresome and distracting, but not so much that it kept me from gleaning great insight. For those that appreciate illustrations and examples, it will likely help drive home the message. All in all, this book is certain to leave a more lasting impression than your average closet-cleanup manual. It aims to clean up your heart.

Product review by Jennifer Harrison, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, June 2010