Scan barcode
A review by liamliayaum
The Afrominimalist's Guide to Living with Less by Christine Platt
5.0
Ever wanted to explore minimalism? Christine Platt takes it one step further to define afrominimalism, which is a minimalist lifestyle that is influenced by the African diaspora. Starting with understanding why we own, or want to own, certain items, Christine dives into the psychology of ownership with a focus on Black and marginalized communities. Interlaced in these lessons is Christine's own story from her days of having much more than she needed. Christine isn't afraid to tell the truth and it adds a humbling tone to her text. Additionally, Christine has "For The Culture" callouts that speak to folks of Black and marginalized communities to address their specific needs and concerns. If you are not apart of these communities, this is your opportunity to gain awareness; do not skip out on these callouts.
This book is broken into three parts and could be read separately or together, depending on the point in your own journey. Personally, I read all three together, taking time to reflect using both providing questions and my reactions. The three parts are the principles, the process, and the practice. However, these parts are presented in a way that centers on the individual doing the work of self-discovery, a theme that Christine references frequently. This text is not meant to be a one-stop shop, fix all your problems with an easy, quick, and digestible formula. Minimalism is a journey, not a destination, and Christine reminds that it will be difficult, namely with stories from her own experiences.
While I may not be actively engaging with the process, yet, I still explored my experiences with the reflection questions and have learned quite a lot. I will warn you, potential reader, that you may experience many emotions and make connections you weren't expecting, which Christine also mentions. I don't know what my flavor of minimalism will end up being. This book is a must read for anyone looking to live with less and to use to develop the habits to do so.
This is also a quick read; I would have finished within a day had I not been reflecting and taking notes.
This book is broken into three parts and could be read separately or together, depending on the point in your own journey. Personally, I read all three together, taking time to reflect using both providing questions and my reactions. The three parts are the principles, the process, and the practice. However, these parts are presented in a way that centers on the individual doing the work of self-discovery, a theme that Christine references frequently. This text is not meant to be a one-stop shop, fix all your problems with an easy, quick, and digestible formula. Minimalism is a journey, not a destination, and Christine reminds that it will be difficult, namely with stories from her own experiences.
While I may not be actively engaging with the process, yet, I still explored my experiences with the reflection questions and have learned quite a lot. I will warn you, potential reader, that you may experience many emotions and make connections you weren't expecting, which Christine also mentions. I don't know what my flavor of minimalism will end up being. This book is a must read for anyone looking to live with less and to use to develop the habits to do so.
This is also a quick read; I would have finished within a day had I not been reflecting and taking notes.