Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of Flanagan's Smart Home: The 101 Essentials for Starting Out, Starting Over, Scaling Back

verap avatar reviewed on + 30 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4


I loved this book! It's perfect for anyone who wants to declutter and focus on the essentials - from recent college grads making their first home, to pack rats and horders, to someone who just wants to live a more simple life.

I always tend to have an item for every occasion, all the latest gadgets, etc. This book helped me see what items are really necessary, and those that just make life more difficult. Barbara Flanagan lists essential items for 'sleeping', 'bathing & dressing', 'cooking', 'dining', 'cleaning & fixing', and 'reading, writing, living'. She discusses the history behind each item and common uses. In the 'Smart List' at the end of each chapter, Flanagan also lists her favorite brands, average prices, and where the item can be bought.

Overall, a very handy little book and a great reference book! I'm keeping one on hand for myself, and will be giving some as gifts for the holidays.