The Lost Art of Living: Finding Our Way Back

by Lea Ellen DiNonno

143 pages, Paperback

Published September 5, 2025

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

A profound, delightful read. Each chapter reads like a journal reflection in a month or season, and then ties that into the topic of the chapter (such as nourishing food, the joy of working with our hands, having patience and grace with ourselves, etc) and ends with a scripture “anchor” that ties it all together. It is a gentle, meditative read that packs a surprising punch. The author very astutely names the sources of the vague, unsettled discontent that we all feel, yet instead of increasing anxiety, her wise words are grounding and a heady cushion against despair. This glowing ode to simple living in a complex world leaves me both encouraged and convicted, with a sense of concrete steps I can take to live a more purposeful, peaceful, God-centered life no matter what is going on around me.

I tend to be a very fast reader, but I took this one slow, reading a few pages each morning is a kind of devotional. This is probably one I will pick up again and again and one I will definitely lend to friends!

[B StLaurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow living theme with scripture to back up her thoughts. Interesting. Will read again.

[Jodie Buggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like coming home- an invitation from God to come back to His intended way of living. Lea shares so many snippets of wise words and encouraging ideas. She is a voice in today’s upside down culture, full of lies and confusion, that stands out amongst the noise. God is speaking truth through her, and she is finding ways to relay that message through her writing and YouTube platform. If you are seeking truth, feel that something is off in this messy world, and need a foundation to stand on - come back to living - living God’s way. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Come to Him.

“The repetition stops feeling like a punishment and starts feeling like an invitation. It becomes a rhythm you move inside of, not a grind you’re trying to escape.” Lea Ellen

[Stephanie Baldwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this and will read it again I'm sure. I also think it would make a very giftable book if you know the recipient well. The author's messages speak to my own feelings and thoughts very deeply, and she also offers biblical encouragement that I appreciated very much. This is a book for the time we are living in-- if you have felt uncertain, discouraged, the feeling like "this just isn't how it's supposed to be", you will like it. If you've been told you're an "old soul" or born in the wrong decade, you will like it. If you appreciate slow living and being present with each season, you will like it. If you need the comfort of a friend who "get's it", you'll like it.

[Ohmyitsjustmeximxim · Rating 4 out of 5]

a cosy read. (there are a few spelling mistakes here and there, but nothing significant and it doesn't affect my rating of this book)

I am currently in the process of testing out Lea's basic sauerkraut recipe. I hope it turns out well.

[Lyndi Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this book and I'm restarting. It's a beautifully written message for our hurried and harried souls. This will be a yearly read for me as I need the biblical, deep reflections to remind me to live in the "pace of grace".

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt like a much needed warm hug - exactly the words and messages I needed to hear. I will definitely be re-reading this one.