Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Living in chaos? Professional Organizer Mellen has written the book to help. At 400 pages, it's not for the faint of heart or the semi-committed, but for readers determined to bringing their stuff under control. "There is no magic device, and you don't need to be rescued," Mellen assures, advocating ways of streamlining that don't have to break the bank. He begins by the front door, with creating a place to locate your keys and mail, and then moves through the house from room to room, starting in the kitchen; sentimental doo-dads (the most difficult to abandon) are the last to go. While Mellen at times ventures into Martha Stewart's turf ("Create a paint schedule!"), he's closer in temperament to his mentor, Oprah. For those having trouble letting go of their stuff, he says, "Identify with the willingness to shift your behavior," and move bravely forward. Despite dips into hokum, Mellen is not a sentimentalist, he's a tough life coach, and many readers will have trouble paring down as much as he'd like. But those willing to take even a small sip of Mellon's Kool-Aid may enjoy a more organized, efficient, and well-managed life. (Aug.) Copyright 2010 Reed Business Information.
Review by Library Journal Review
Mellen is an accomplished organizer and coach for people who wish to streamline their lifestyle and possessions. He narrates his work credibly, beginning by breaking down his philosophy of owning things: "Everything has a home. And, like with like." From there, Mellen goes room by room giving instructions about tackling area-specific clutter. He tends to give other advice that some might consider over-stepping his bounds, such as suggesting which kind of PC printer to buy, but these points can be overlooked easily enough. It is clear that Mellen's clients tend to be affluent, based on comments he makes about wine cellars and the ease with which he suggests buying organizing materials. VERDICT For listeners who find themselves in this category or who are ready to immerse themselves in the decluttering, life-streamlining process, Mellen is a competent coach. ["For comprehensive help with a cluttering problem, Mellen's book is excellent," read the review of the Avery hc, LJ 7/10.]-Samantha Matush, Clara B. Mounce P.L., Bryant, TX (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
