The Simple Living Guide was my introduction to the philosophy and practical basics of living a simple life. I have read many books about simple living since I first read this book, and this one continues to be the best. The Simple Living Guide covers the basics as far as getting started on a simple life with thoughtfulness. Every chapter focuses on a different aspect of simple living (from finances and household to jobs and family), talks about the philosophy behind it, how to get started and how to continue living simply in that area of your life. There are also further resources included on each topic, which I have found very useful. This book is a must for anyone starting on the simple living path, but will also provide additional information and insight for someone who has been on the path for many years. Janet Luhr's writing style is both no-nonsense and friendly. You feel like you have found a mentor and friend in Luhrs. The Simple Living Guide is the most complete and inspiring book on this subject. If you are going to only read one book about simple living, this is the one. If you want to expand your library, I recommend: Duane Elgin's Voluntary Simplicity (the first treatise on the subject), The Complete Idiot's Guide to Simple Living (also very thorough, but not as inspiring as Luhr's book) and Cecil Andrew's Circle of Simplicity (this is a guide for Simple Living study groups, but is also very helpful for someone working on their own).

Recommended: Yes