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The Year without a Purchase: One Family's Quest to Stop Shopping and Start Connecting
The Year without a Purchase is the story of one family's quest to stop shopping and start connecting. Scott Dannemiller and his wife, Gabby, are former missionaries who served in Guatemala. Ten years removed from their vow of simple living, they found themselves on a never-ending treadmill of consumption where each purchase created a desire for more and never led to true satisfaction. The difference between needs and wants had grown very fuzzy, and making that distinction clear again would require drastic action: no nonessential purchases for a whole year. No clothes, no books, no new toys for the kids. If they couldn't eat it or use it up within a year (toilet paper and shampoo, for example), they wouldn't buy it.
Filled with humorous wit, curious statistics, and poignant conclusions, the book examines modern America's spending habits and chronicles the highs and lows of dropping out of our consumer culture. As the family bypasses the checkout line to wrestle with the challenges of gift giving, child rearing, and keeping up with the Joneses, they discover important truths about human nature and the secret to finding true joy. The Year without a Purchase offers valuable food for thought for anyone who has ever wanted to reduce stress by shopping less and living more.
Filled with humorous wit, curious statistics, and poignant conclusions, the book examines modern America's spending habits and chronicles the highs and lows of dropping out of our consumer culture. As the family bypasses the checkout line to wrestle with the challenges of gift giving, child rearing, and keeping up with the Joneses, they discover important truths about human nature and the secret to finding true joy. The Year without a Purchase offers valuable food for thought for anyone who has ever wanted to reduce stress by shopping less and living more.
200 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2015
70 people are currently reading
1405 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
July 2, 2016
This is a story of a family that vows not to make any purchases for a year. Food, gas, and toothpaste are OK BUT clothes, new appliances, and gifts are Not OK. The beginning of the book is quite interesting but it then gets repetitive. I also found the book blurb to be misleading. The book has a very Christian focus and each chapter begins with a bible passage. I personally found this a bit off-putting. All that being said the book did make this reader think about how she spends money and why we are so focused on all the things we have and hope to accumulate in the future.
I got this book from Netgalley for an honest review
I got this book from Netgalley for an honest review
December 24, 2015
I was intrigued by the concept of making no purchases for a year. This book is misleading in that they find loopholes and don't seem to be people who truly would benefit from the experiment. They seem...cheap...to begin with and given their prior mission work, they already know firsthand how the other half lives. I personally find it ironic that the author is basing all of it on Scripture yet nothing seems done with a humble heart. And funnier that they are profiting from this. While I see the validity of what they were trying to do, the author wasn't very relateable. It was as if he was trying too hard to prove he and his family learned a thing or two during their journey. Some forced humor and a lot of Bible reference. I am Christian and my eyes began to roll a bit from the amount of it. And imposing their challenge indirectly at other people was a tad much. I call BS on the Mentos and soda gift and how nice that the purple suitcase happened to be a conduit to a conversation with a woman who had an epiphany about "things " and needing to spend more time with her kids. Just a bit too neat, in my opinion. While the message came through, it was a waste of time . Make THIS the year you don't purchase this book. Ugh.
June 4, 2017
Enjoyed the beginning but then I lost interest and skimmed. Made me think about where and why I spend my money.
December 6, 2015
First: This book is funny.
Second: It has a Christian slant.
Even though I'm not a Christian, I appreciate (and feel I share) Scott's core values: love, compassion, and service. He and his family used the year of not buying stuff to dive more deeply into these values. And that Scott does it with such a fun sense of humor made this book a good read.
I also learned some important things. Did you know the U.S. throws away 30-40 percent of its food supply? And that Americans throw away roughly 400,000 cell phones every 24 hours? And that one in ten American families is currently using a storage unit (and 65 percent of those have a garage at home)? And Americans spend $450 BILLION on Christmas gifts every year.
Our obsession with stuff is fueled by consumer marketing...which he and his family disengaged from in interesting ways.
And what did they end up doing as a result? Having more EXPERICENCES together (rather than buying stuff). Saving more money. And giving more money and time to those in need.
As Scott writes, "When you strip away the clutter of your life, your purpose becomes much clearer."
(I got a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for a review.)
Second: It has a Christian slant.
Even though I'm not a Christian, I appreciate (and feel I share) Scott's core values: love, compassion, and service. He and his family used the year of not buying stuff to dive more deeply into these values. And that Scott does it with such a fun sense of humor made this book a good read.
I also learned some important things. Did you know the U.S. throws away 30-40 percent of its food supply? And that Americans throw away roughly 400,000 cell phones every 24 hours? And that one in ten American families is currently using a storage unit (and 65 percent of those have a garage at home)? And Americans spend $450 BILLION on Christmas gifts every year.
Our obsession with stuff is fueled by consumer marketing...which he and his family disengaged from in interesting ways.
And what did they end up doing as a result? Having more EXPERICENCES together (rather than buying stuff). Saving more money. And giving more money and time to those in need.
As Scott writes, "When you strip away the clutter of your life, your purpose becomes much clearer."
(I got a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for a review.)
February 5, 2017
This was a witty little book about a guy and his wife and their one-year-deal to not spend any money on anything but groceries and other absolute essentials for staying alive. Some chapters were pretty good, some were less good. It's a book that I read in drips and drabs. Nothing explosive here, but I like books about simplifying your life and cutting out the excess. The author seems like a fun guy to sit next to at a party. A strong 3 stars.
December 31, 2018
LOVE LOVE LOVED this book!! It did make me feel guilty for all of the things I currently have and also would like to have, but also left me with the realization that we live with SO much. This book helped me to want to take action in 2019 to become less held down by “things” and more motivated to connect and build my relationships!!
March 15, 2025
This book has been haunting my shelves for a while and I decided it was time to finally read it. Though I didn't care for much of Dannemiller's humor, I did enjoy reading of his family's experiences with living a year without purchasing nonessential items. His "not much and not me" process for evaluating his belongings is the best nugget, in my opinion. It's given me some things to think about. I'm glad I read it.
December 7, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of the book for review purposes.
I enjoyed this book. It contains timely and important issues facing most of us in industrialized (not third-world) nations. The author's self-deprecating, humorous tone throughout made this a very readable book, but I could have stood a little less self-deprecating humor and perhaps a few less TMI topics (really didn't need to know about their reproductive decisions) and a little more plain speak about the day-to-day challenges associated with changing one's lifestyle and purchasing decisions.
Also, at times I wasn't sure whether the author was writing to me, a member of a general audience, or writing a journal entry he expected to be read by his wife. I don't know of any husband that self-effacing about his own acumen vs. that of his wife unless his wife or someone who will shortly be talking with his wife is in the same room with him.
The author did a good job of relating personal experiences and insights to published research studies, giving both more weight and validity. Overall, I would recommend this book, although the title is slightly inaccurate. The challenge was to cut nonessential spending, not to stop shopping entirely. Furthermore, it was the parents alone who made the effort to stop the shopping and connect more. It would be interesting to see what insights, stumbling blocks, and challenges would face a family who completed this challenge where both the parents and children were cognizant, active participants (especially a family with teenage or preteen children).
One final, minor complaint: my impression is the author and his wife considered this a purely one year challenge to be endured, like their one-year missionary work. Then life goes back to normal, although the new normal won't be quite like the old normal. Much like a strict diet, I don't anticipate a similar one-year experience to have a great deal of impact on future purchase decisions for most people. If one wants to truly change a consumerist mindset, a more relaxed set of guidelines and no fixed end-date might yield more long-term benefits.
I enjoyed this book. It contains timely and important issues facing most of us in industrialized (not third-world) nations. The author's self-deprecating, humorous tone throughout made this a very readable book, but I could have stood a little less self-deprecating humor and perhaps a few less TMI topics (really didn't need to know about their reproductive decisions) and a little more plain speak about the day-to-day challenges associated with changing one's lifestyle and purchasing decisions.
Also, at times I wasn't sure whether the author was writing to me, a member of a general audience, or writing a journal entry he expected to be read by his wife. I don't know of any husband that self-effacing about his own acumen vs. that of his wife unless his wife or someone who will shortly be talking with his wife is in the same room with him.
The author did a good job of relating personal experiences and insights to published research studies, giving both more weight and validity. Overall, I would recommend this book, although the title is slightly inaccurate. The challenge was to cut nonessential spending, not to stop shopping entirely. Furthermore, it was the parents alone who made the effort to stop the shopping and connect more. It would be interesting to see what insights, stumbling blocks, and challenges would face a family who completed this challenge where both the parents and children were cognizant, active participants (especially a family with teenage or preteen children).
One final, minor complaint: my impression is the author and his wife considered this a purely one year challenge to be endured, like their one-year missionary work. Then life goes back to normal, although the new normal won't be quite like the old normal. Much like a strict diet, I don't anticipate a similar one-year experience to have a great deal of impact on future purchase decisions for most people. If one wants to truly change a consumerist mindset, a more relaxed set of guidelines and no fixed end-date might yield more long-term benefits.
August 10, 2015
Read this book!
This is a really fun book to read. The author is hilariously self-deprecating, and his references to faith are gentle and genuine instead of tossing the Bible at your face. I grew up with experience gifts, which I sometimes still give to kids, so it was fun to read about this family's experiences of avoiding things in favor of experiences.
I did get bent out of shape regarding a baptism done outside of church with no church accountability or authorization, which is about me, because that is a great story. And the reference to the length of time necessary to adopt a child from China being compared to shopping at American Girl Doll was a face palm moment (like, really??? That's a joke?) was questionable.
But beyond those blips, this book is a great read for people concerned about the level of consumerism we live with in the U.S. It is fun and thoughtful, and well-written. It has lovely moments, particularly around some of the author's ah-ha moments with his kids. Read it!
This is a really fun book to read. The author is hilariously self-deprecating, and his references to faith are gentle and genuine instead of tossing the Bible at your face. I grew up with experience gifts, which I sometimes still give to kids, so it was fun to read about this family's experiences of avoiding things in favor of experiences.
I did get bent out of shape regarding a baptism done outside of church with no church accountability or authorization, which is about me, because that is a great story. And the reference to the length of time necessary to adopt a child from China being compared to shopping at American Girl Doll was a face palm moment (like, really??? That's a joke?) was questionable.
But beyond those blips, this book is a great read for people concerned about the level of consumerism we live with in the U.S. It is fun and thoughtful, and well-written. It has lovely moments, particularly around some of the author's ah-ha moments with his kids. Read it!
October 5, 2015
I loved this book but I lived it so I'm not an unbiased reviewer. I think people should read the book because it's funny and truth-telling and interesting. I've always thought Scott had such a way with words and am so proud of him for writing about our family's yearlong challenge.
February 8, 2016
This book has some great insights into our culture of consumerism. I especially enjoyed reading about how they handled Christmas and the service work they did with their children. His sense of humor is not my thing so it was distracting sometimes, but overall a good read.
March 19, 2016
Didn't think I would like this, but it has been interesting and funny. Gives you some things think about in relation to all the "stuff" we feel we need to buy. A quick read. Enjoyed it.
March 28, 2017
A joy to read, written in the author's jocular tone. He doesn't take himself too seriously, even as he and his wife do their utmost to take their quest seriously. Found the multiple euphemisms for a vasectomy rather childish, but that's a minor detraction.
___
Why would anyone want to write a book about not buying stuff? anyone who actually buys the book would probably feel like a failure from the word 'go'. [Good thing I picked it up at the library XD]
It's one of those wonderful reflective conversations where you feel that you are really accomplishing something by examining the trajectory of your life, with the added satisfaction of making no real commitment to change anything for the better.
In this moment I realise that the products in the catalog and those advertised in our avalanche of emails aren't actually intended to make my life more easier, they are intended to make my life more enviable.
Your brain gets a dopamine hit from the anticipation of a pleasurable event, not just the reward itself. And if the reward isn't guaranteed, the hit is a lot stronger.
That's how it is with kids. They are blissfully blind to the social land mines in their midst, while the parents are the ones who make mountains out of molehills.
A ten year study by UCLA anthropologists of 32 middle-class families found that three quarters of them were unable to use their garages for parking cars because.. there was too much stuff in them.
Dan Gilbert (of Stumbling On Happiness fame) shares that the biggest indicator of happiness is our human relationships and how much time we spend with the special people in our lives.
"We favour objects because we think that experiences can be fun but leave us with nothing to show for the,. But that turns out to be a good thing. Experiences have the nice property of going away. Cars need repairs, they rust in our driveway, and they ultimately disappoint us enough that we sell them and get new ones. Experiences are like good relatives that stay for a while and then leave. Objects are like relatives that move in and stay past their welcome."
A text search of 1.5 million books dating back to 1800 shows that the use of the word give decreased significantly between 1800 and 2000, while the word get became more common in the same period.
Routine only becomes discipline when you add intentionality.
When it comes to truly honouring another person, there is so much we miss when we demonstrate our gratitude with gifts alone. For one of the deepest human desires is to be truly known - known to the marrow. Known as God knows us. The one who formed us, shaped us, and accepts us for who we are. While the choice of gift can demonstrate how much we know a person, it falls short of acceptance. Because this genuine connection requires more than face time. It requires openness.
There is nothing inherently wrong with material gifts. They become a problem only when we give them far more meaning than they deserve.
___
Why would anyone want to write a book about not buying stuff? anyone who actually buys the book would probably feel like a failure from the word 'go'. [Good thing I picked it up at the library XD]
It's one of those wonderful reflective conversations where you feel that you are really accomplishing something by examining the trajectory of your life, with the added satisfaction of making no real commitment to change anything for the better.
In this moment I realise that the products in the catalog and those advertised in our avalanche of emails aren't actually intended to make my life more easier, they are intended to make my life more enviable.
Your brain gets a dopamine hit from the anticipation of a pleasurable event, not just the reward itself. And if the reward isn't guaranteed, the hit is a lot stronger.
That's how it is with kids. They are blissfully blind to the social land mines in their midst, while the parents are the ones who make mountains out of molehills.
A ten year study by UCLA anthropologists of 32 middle-class families found that three quarters of them were unable to use their garages for parking cars because.. there was too much stuff in them.
Dan Gilbert (of Stumbling On Happiness fame) shares that the biggest indicator of happiness is our human relationships and how much time we spend with the special people in our lives.
"We favour objects because we think that experiences can be fun but leave us with nothing to show for the,. But that turns out to be a good thing. Experiences have the nice property of going away. Cars need repairs, they rust in our driveway, and they ultimately disappoint us enough that we sell them and get new ones. Experiences are like good relatives that stay for a while and then leave. Objects are like relatives that move in and stay past their welcome."
A text search of 1.5 million books dating back to 1800 shows that the use of the word give decreased significantly between 1800 and 2000, while the word get became more common in the same period.
Routine only becomes discipline when you add intentionality.
When it comes to truly honouring another person, there is so much we miss when we demonstrate our gratitude with gifts alone. For one of the deepest human desires is to be truly known - known to the marrow. Known as God knows us. The one who formed us, shaped us, and accepts us for who we are. While the choice of gift can demonstrate how much we know a person, it falls short of acceptance. Because this genuine connection requires more than face time. It requires openness.
There is nothing inherently wrong with material gifts. They become a problem only when we give them far more meaning than they deserve.
February 7, 2019
The Year without a Purchase: One Family's Quest to Stop Shopping and Start Connecting by [Dannemiller, Scott]This book caught my attention with t he title. I opened it with doubt that the title could be true. Then the author, Scott Dannemiller offered and "Introduction to the Worst Book Ever". I like the way he approached the concept of this book with humor and insight.
To begin he decided to stop any reckless spending for a year. So he and his wife, Gabby, came up with specific rules, so they would be allowed to by the things that are necessary to live. Whenever they could they would re-use or repair their items. In fact the author gave an example where these rules were hard to follow when he forgot to pack socks on a business trip.
This couple put their faith in God that he would show them how to make alternatives when needed. However, Dannemiller never came down holier-than-thou. When their child had a birthday party to go to they had to find a fun gift that would not break the rules. It took ingenuity in places but they stuck to it.
This is a very inspiring book which challenged me to take stock and realize how little you need and how to let go of the things that you don't.
To begin he decided to stop any reckless spending for a year. So he and his wife, Gabby, came up with specific rules, so they would be allowed to by the things that are necessary to live. Whenever they could they would re-use or repair their items. In fact the author gave an example where these rules were hard to follow when he forgot to pack socks on a business trip.
This couple put their faith in God that he would show them how to make alternatives when needed. However, Dannemiller never came down holier-than-thou. When their child had a birthday party to go to they had to find a fun gift that would not break the rules. It took ingenuity in places but they stuck to it.
This is a very inspiring book which challenged me to take stock and realize how little you need and how to let go of the things that you don't.
February 7, 2019
Digitalt anmeldereksemplar fra Netgalley
The Year Without a Purchase er et memoir af Scott Dannemiller om det år hvor han og konen bestemte at de ville have et år hvor de ikke købte unødvendige ting og havde fokus på oplevelser med andre. Dannemiller familien er meget troende, og Gud og religion er derfor en stor del af bogen. Jeg var af en eller anden grund ikke bevidst om det, og selvom det til tider var lige nok for mig, så nød jeg faktisk bogen alligevel. (Læs hele anmeldelsen på Frk. Litteratur.dk)
It’s not that stuff is inherently bad. What makes it bad is the value we place on it.
'The Year Without a Purchase' is a memoir by Scott Dannemiller about a year of his life where he and his wife decided not to buy unecessary and worthless stuff. I was taken aback with the amount of religion and spirituality in the book as I did not expect it. As the book progressed I was surprised that I didn't mind it as much as I thought I would. Each chapter begins with a verse or more from the Bible, but I skimmed that part and just read on. Dannemillers religion is also intertwined though. To get around their rule of not buying stuff, they buy experiences - also for Christimas, Birthdays and Easter. Their young daughter got a giftcard and wants to take her grandmother to lunch, she even calls her and tells her. That moment is just so incredibly precious.
'The Year Without a Purchase' is a good book, that I quite enjoyed. I did however only rate it 3.5 stars because it didn't grip me and keep me reading. I am inspired by the book though and hope to cull my own purchases this year.
The Year Without a Purchase er et memoir af Scott Dannemiller om det år hvor han og konen bestemte at de ville have et år hvor de ikke købte unødvendige ting og havde fokus på oplevelser med andre. Dannemiller familien er meget troende, og Gud og religion er derfor en stor del af bogen. Jeg var af en eller anden grund ikke bevidst om det, og selvom det til tider var lige nok for mig, så nød jeg faktisk bogen alligevel. (Læs hele anmeldelsen på Frk. Litteratur.dk)
It’s not that stuff is inherently bad. What makes it bad is the value we place on it.
'The Year Without a Purchase' is a memoir by Scott Dannemiller about a year of his life where he and his wife decided not to buy unecessary and worthless stuff. I was taken aback with the amount of religion and spirituality in the book as I did not expect it. As the book progressed I was surprised that I didn't mind it as much as I thought I would. Each chapter begins with a verse or more from the Bible, but I skimmed that part and just read on. Dannemillers religion is also intertwined though. To get around their rule of not buying stuff, they buy experiences - also for Christimas, Birthdays and Easter. Their young daughter got a giftcard and wants to take her grandmother to lunch, she even calls her and tells her. That moment is just so incredibly precious.
'The Year Without a Purchase' is a good book, that I quite enjoyed. I did however only rate it 3.5 stars because it didn't grip me and keep me reading. I am inspired by the book though and hope to cull my own purchases this year.
May 24, 2022
I loved the idea of this book. It’s what caught my attention. BUT not what I was hoping it to be about/focused on. They still bought things, just made a few rules to not buy things they want.
I was hoping for more dependence on God for providing things rather than just saving money and still buying “needs”. And he mentioned it a few times that they were aware that they weren’t going crazy with it. Anywho, just not my favorite.
I was hoping for more dependence on God for providing things rather than just saving money and still buying “needs”. And he mentioned it a few times that they were aware that they weren’t going crazy with it. Anywho, just not my favorite.
August 22, 2015
Title: A Year Without A Purchase
Author: Scott Dannemiller
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"A Year Without A Purchase: One Family's Quest to Stop Shopping and Start Connecting" by Scott Dannemiller
What I enjoyed from this read.....
I found this novel very interesting...something to really think on long after the read. There were several ideas presented that did give me reasons to think upon from this author. With all of the consumerism that goes on just in the United States one will be able to look on quite a bit of it as something to definitely be concerned about. It was a interesting read of how this author shared his feeling 'surrounding the sacrifices made by he and his wife to connect more with others about what was essential to living.' Now, that was a read! I found Mr. Dannemiller was some what humorous as he delivered some of his experiences with the reader. I will say by the time I reach the end of the novel I did find myself saying..do I really need some of the items I have? So, maybe after reading this book... I was now seeing this read in a different light...exploring the relationship that I have with all of my stuff...saying...is this stuff really making me happy or preventing me from achieving my ultimate goal?
Along with the humor the reader will receive 'Biblical passages, personal anecdotes, research, tools for individuals/couples/families to evaluate their own relationship to their material things.'
In the end this read of these short chapters...will gives the reader a great challenge and that is knowing what is important to you ...evaluation your wants/needs. Which is important? Learning to make everyday count and not worry about all that stuff you want but may not need was one thing I got out of this read. I thought this novel was a very important that can help anyone who wants change in their spending and consuming in their everyday life. This was definitely a inspiriting read.
Would I recommend? YES!
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Scott Dannemiller
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"A Year Without A Purchase: One Family's Quest to Stop Shopping and Start Connecting" by Scott Dannemiller
What I enjoyed from this read.....
I found this novel very interesting...something to really think on long after the read. There were several ideas presented that did give me reasons to think upon from this author. With all of the consumerism that goes on just in the United States one will be able to look on quite a bit of it as something to definitely be concerned about. It was a interesting read of how this author shared his feeling 'surrounding the sacrifices made by he and his wife to connect more with others about what was essential to living.' Now, that was a read! I found Mr. Dannemiller was some what humorous as he delivered some of his experiences with the reader. I will say by the time I reach the end of the novel I did find myself saying..do I really need some of the items I have? So, maybe after reading this book... I was now seeing this read in a different light...exploring the relationship that I have with all of my stuff...saying...is this stuff really making me happy or preventing me from achieving my ultimate goal?
Along with the humor the reader will receive 'Biblical passages, personal anecdotes, research, tools for individuals/couples/families to evaluate their own relationship to their material things.'
In the end this read of these short chapters...will gives the reader a great challenge and that is knowing what is important to you ...evaluation your wants/needs. Which is important? Learning to make everyday count and not worry about all that stuff you want but may not need was one thing I got out of this read. I thought this novel was a very important that can help anyone who wants change in their spending and consuming in their everyday life. This was definitely a inspiriting read.
Would I recommend? YES!
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2016
A very interesting read. I give this book 3.5 stars.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but the title had me intrigued.
A year without a purchase, is that even possible. I'm really not sure I could manage it.
I did it for a week once, but that was because I was laid up in bed after surgery and my internet was down, so I couldn't shop online.
But yeah once I got started with this, it did turn out to be very interesting. I liked when they were not sure if a purchase was allowed and discussed it together. This task must really be difficult, but when you have kids I imagine its harder still.
I think I may need to try this with my husband. But not sure my 6 year old would understand it.
It does make you think about how much you buy, that really if you think about it, you just don't need. I think if everyone who reads this book, actually thinks next time they go to buy something about if they really need it or not it could save people money.
It has made me think this week while out and about shopping and a couple of times I actually put back what I was going to buy, as I really didn't need that pen to go with the 98 pens in my pencil case. However it didn't work when it come to purchasing books, but come on, if i'm going to manage this for a short while, then I really do need books to keep me busy and stop me from buying.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but the title had me intrigued.
A year without a purchase, is that even possible. I'm really not sure I could manage it.
I did it for a week once, but that was because I was laid up in bed after surgery and my internet was down, so I couldn't shop online.
But yeah once I got started with this, it did turn out to be very interesting. I liked when they were not sure if a purchase was allowed and discussed it together. This task must really be difficult, but when you have kids I imagine its harder still.
I think I may need to try this with my husband. But not sure my 6 year old would understand it.
It does make you think about how much you buy, that really if you think about it, you just don't need. I think if everyone who reads this book, actually thinks next time they go to buy something about if they really need it or not it could save people money.
It has made me think this week while out and about shopping and a couple of times I actually put back what I was going to buy, as I really didn't need that pen to go with the 98 pens in my pencil case. However it didn't work when it come to purchasing books, but come on, if i'm going to manage this for a short while, then I really do need books to keep me busy and stop me from buying.
August 28, 2015
I read this book faster than it took to write this review. How can I express what I think without sounding sappy and too "adjective-y"?
Scott is one of the funniest writers I have had the joy of reading. He's super silly and creative and makes you think, "Yes! I was thinking that, but didn't know how to express it like that!". He also has this uncanny ability to start with a topic that may be hilarious and superficial and slowly change the subject into something deep and meaningful.
This is this book. It's funny and enjoyable and at the root of it all...it's meaningful and worthy. It doesn't matter your religion...if you want to be a good human, this book will strike a chord within yourself. Forget the "worthless" stuff, and start connecting with people for experiences you can't put a price on (for the most part).
Just read it, will ya?
Scott is one of the funniest writers I have had the joy of reading. He's super silly and creative and makes you think, "Yes! I was thinking that, but didn't know how to express it like that!". He also has this uncanny ability to start with a topic that may be hilarious and superficial and slowly change the subject into something deep and meaningful.
This is this book. It's funny and enjoyable and at the root of it all...it's meaningful and worthy. It doesn't matter your religion...if you want to be a good human, this book will strike a chord within yourself. Forget the "worthless" stuff, and start connecting with people for experiences you can't put a price on (for the most part).
Just read it, will ya?
December 27, 2016
A really excellent, challenging, funny book showing one family's journey to "own what they have" for a year. Sometimes these books can just feel like a giant guilt trip in the sense that someone else both thought of and executed such a selfless act, but it felt like they shared the whole story (guts and gore and all) and knew that it wasn't a holier-than-all thing to do. It felt like an invitation to participate in their challenge with them. Highly recommended.
*Full disclosure, I got an advanced review copy of this book on NetGalley, and yes, I did finish it long after it was already published.
*Full disclosure, I got an advanced review copy of this book on NetGalley, and yes, I did finish it long after it was already published.
October 14, 2015
I loved this book! I thought it was a really interesting concept and I loved the style of writing. In no way was the author holier than thou; he was a normal married guy trying to raise his two kids the best that he can in our American age of consumerism, while wanting to do something different to 'get back to basics' and live out his Christian values. He freely admits where he failed and where he struggled....well worth the read.
March 28, 2016
read with a small group at church for Lent. funny, not at all preachy (which, considering the topic is surprising), plenty to ponder and lots to talk about!
December 20, 2017
I was looking up books about anti-consumerism when I stumbled upon this title. I used an itunes gift card I got from my brother for my birthday 4 days prior to purchase it as an ebook. I ended up blasting through it in less than 2 days.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this is a christian book; Christ and his teachings are a big motivator in my decision to live a more minimalist life. However, at first I didn't like the author's humour (it made me roll my eyes in more than one place), but I'm ultimately glad I continued forth because there were a lot of good lessons to be gleaned.
Scott starts each chapter with an appropriate bible verse which helps keeps things in perspective. He started his challenge at the beginning of a New Year, while laying out some ground rules: he can buy consumables, "experience gifts", and if something breaks they are allowed to fix it (only replace if it would cost more to fix than to replace). Some people wouldn't call this "no spending", and they would be somewhat right, but I've read other blogs about "no spend months/years" and Scott is largely following how others have done no spend periods. It's still quite the challenge.
Some of the most impactful chapters were when Scott discussed his various roadblocks, like how he recognized he was replacing buying things with eating sweets, how gift buying fits in with not spending, and especially with his children's attitudes. This is where the rubber hit the road and the real "test" started for him. This is ultimately where he, and myself as the reader, really learned lessons. Sure, it would be easy to buy a less flamboyant suitcase and to not have people stare at you, but isn't that just buying into the consumerist model of peer pressure? Food for thought.
Scott's successes were also quite impactful. These include helping less fortunate people on the street, donating twice the amount as the previous year without realizing it, and especially when he took his kids to help out at the food bank. His kids became jealous after packing up bags of chocolate milk., cereal, and other goodies while not being able to eat them. Scott and his wife asked their kids how they would hypothetically divide up the bag of food throughout the weekend (like the kids receiving them would have to). They started with Friday's dinner until they got to Sunday breakfast, and realized all of their theoretical food was gone. It drove home the point that there are kids who would have to stretch their food bag for the whole weekend, or otherwise not eat for a full day. When I read about how much that stuck with the kids this became the chapter that stuck with me as well.
In the end, some would say Scott ultimately failed his challenge because there were about 4 times where he definitely broke his rules. But I would have to disagree; he very successfully loosened the grip consumerism has on him and became closer to God and his family through many changes. Perhaps we should all do our own spending fasts in areas that have a grip on us.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this is a christian book; Christ and his teachings are a big motivator in my decision to live a more minimalist life. However, at first I didn't like the author's humour (it made me roll my eyes in more than one place), but I'm ultimately glad I continued forth because there were a lot of good lessons to be gleaned.
Scott starts each chapter with an appropriate bible verse which helps keeps things in perspective. He started his challenge at the beginning of a New Year, while laying out some ground rules: he can buy consumables, "experience gifts", and if something breaks they are allowed to fix it (only replace if it would cost more to fix than to replace). Some people wouldn't call this "no spending", and they would be somewhat right, but I've read other blogs about "no spend months/years" and Scott is largely following how others have done no spend periods. It's still quite the challenge.
Some of the most impactful chapters were when Scott discussed his various roadblocks, like how he recognized he was replacing buying things with eating sweets, how gift buying fits in with not spending, and especially with his children's attitudes. This is where the rubber hit the road and the real "test" started for him. This is ultimately where he, and myself as the reader, really learned lessons. Sure, it would be easy to buy a less flamboyant suitcase and to not have people stare at you, but isn't that just buying into the consumerist model of peer pressure? Food for thought.
Scott's successes were also quite impactful. These include helping less fortunate people on the street, donating twice the amount as the previous year without realizing it, and especially when he took his kids to help out at the food bank. His kids became jealous after packing up bags of chocolate milk., cereal, and other goodies while not being able to eat them. Scott and his wife asked their kids how they would hypothetically divide up the bag of food throughout the weekend (like the kids receiving them would have to). They started with Friday's dinner until they got to Sunday breakfast, and realized all of their theoretical food was gone. It drove home the point that there are kids who would have to stretch their food bag for the whole weekend, or otherwise not eat for a full day. When I read about how much that stuck with the kids this became the chapter that stuck with me as well.
In the end, some would say Scott ultimately failed his challenge because there were about 4 times where he definitely broke his rules. But I would have to disagree; he very successfully loosened the grip consumerism has on him and became closer to God and his family through many changes. Perhaps we should all do our own spending fasts in areas that have a grip on us.
July 31, 2021
The beginning of the book is nice but the more you read, the more you lose interest and you feel... Bothered?
The first thing which bothered me was how the husband is aware his wife will have a difficult time with cleaning and he is aware he should have helped her yet he just watches TV? More importantly, he describes how he should pay more attention to her only when he feels she is loosing her calm. If you are aware of what you're doing and you know it's wrong, why do you keep doing it?
The way the author portrayed his relationship made me very uncomfortable. To see someone's thoughts how they disrespect their own partner or how they are aware of certain things but actively ignore them was just unpleasant and bothersome.
Then there were many jokes which weren't funny at all. That forced comedy made the book terrible.
The final detail of the book is the heavy Christianity quotes which might not be relatable to everyone (or appealing) and I personally don't really see their point in this book.
At some point there was mentioned about giving as a birthday gift cola and mentos for an experiment to a girl and later her mother called to say that was her daughter's favorite gift. I highly doubt this.
Later there's also mentioned how his favorite bag couldn't be used anymore and the husband had to use a purple one. The unrealistic things (in my opinion) is that 1 person actually approached them to insult them, only to leave right after their line, and then, a few days later, a lady was very sassy with "are you going to tell me why you have a purple bag or should I ask you?". She was also a business woman. This makes me doubt everything. Why would anyone who is elegant, works in business, cares about appearances etc start a conversation with a stranger in such a manner? More importantly, why would people care so much about the color of a bag that they approach you to offend you?
These 2 stories seem a bit off in my opinion. Maybe they are real but the people didn't behave exactly as described. However, everything combined makes me really dislike this book.
The first thing which bothered me was how the husband is aware his wife will have a difficult time with cleaning and he is aware he should have helped her yet he just watches TV? More importantly, he describes how he should pay more attention to her only when he feels she is loosing her calm. If you are aware of what you're doing and you know it's wrong, why do you keep doing it?
The way the author portrayed his relationship made me very uncomfortable. To see someone's thoughts how they disrespect their own partner or how they are aware of certain things but actively ignore them was just unpleasant and bothersome.
Then there were many jokes which weren't funny at all. That forced comedy made the book terrible.
The final detail of the book is the heavy Christianity quotes which might not be relatable to everyone (or appealing) and I personally don't really see their point in this book.
At some point there was mentioned about giving as a birthday gift cola and mentos for an experiment to a girl and later her mother called to say that was her daughter's favorite gift. I highly doubt this.
Later there's also mentioned how his favorite bag couldn't be used anymore and the husband had to use a purple one. The unrealistic things (in my opinion) is that 1 person actually approached them to insult them, only to leave right after their line, and then, a few days later, a lady was very sassy with "are you going to tell me why you have a purple bag or should I ask you?". She was also a business woman. This makes me doubt everything. Why would anyone who is elegant, works in business, cares about appearances etc start a conversation with a stranger in such a manner? More importantly, why would people care so much about the color of a bag that they approach you to offend you?
These 2 stories seem a bit off in my opinion. Maybe they are real but the people didn't behave exactly as described. However, everything combined makes me really dislike this book.
April 21, 2024
Ok, I'll be honest, I love these types of books. I don't know if you'd categorise them as self help or what. With that said, usually the authors are slightly monotone and it can be a bit boring even if I do enjoy the information. This author, however, did an excellent job and there were certain parts that I laughed until I cried (the sock washing scene comes to mind)... I had to read that bit to my husband. This book was really well written and I love that the author included not just his close family in the challenge, but that his other relationships were respectful of it as well. I also appreciate the religious aspect of it as well. I'm sure we could do better at giving and it definitely gives room for thought. So, thank you for a great read!
July 18, 2018
I found Scott Dannemiller's book entertaining as well as thought provoking. It was an enjoyable read which I managed to finish in a few days. Curiosity led me to pull it off the shelves at the public library and once I began reading it, I found it difficult to put it down.
If someone is interested in simplifying their life, reading this book might give them some ideas of where or how to start. It has good suggestions for anyone looking for inventive ways to save money and learn to appreciate what they have, rather than running out and purchasing more.
If someone is interested in simplifying their life, reading this book might give them some ideas of where or how to start. It has good suggestions for anyone looking for inventive ways to save money and learn to appreciate what they have, rather than running out and purchasing more.
February 10, 2024
Christianity plays a significant part in this couple's decision to take a year off purchasing non-essentials. However, that is not their only impetus.
If you feel you (and your family) are drowning in stuff, this is a great book.
The author is really funny and honest. I really found myself rooting for this family of 4 to make it a year without a purchase.
Could my family do it? Yes, maybe? Are we going to? We're certainly thinking about it.
This book is also a lovely homage to a marriage that really works.
If you feel you (and your family) are drowning in stuff, this is a great book.
The author is really funny and honest. I really found myself rooting for this family of 4 to make it a year without a purchase.
Could my family do it? Yes, maybe? Are we going to? We're certainly thinking about it.
This book is also a lovely homage to a marriage that really works.
April 18, 2018
"The Year Without a Purchase" is a funny yet practical read on how to deal with stuff. It is one thing to be able to afford basic necessities, but it's also a challenge when you can afford more than that. Where do we draw the line of 'enough is enough'. The book also shares tips on how to let go and not be imprisoned by the crap that we buy which we don't really need but they create lots of stress in our lives. Not for the faint-hearted!
May 28, 2018
Entertaining and enjoyable with just the right amount of serious reflection thrown in. A non-Christian reader might be turned off by all the scriptural references, but I didn't think it was excessive and what do you expect? The guy is a Christian blogger and a worship leader in the Presbyterian church.
I took away a few stars because of his writing style. I'm all for humor in writing but the jokiness was so excessive it felt clunky and kind of got in the way of the story.
I took away a few stars because of his writing style. I'm all for humor in writing but the jokiness was so excessive it felt clunky and kind of got in the way of the story.
October 16, 2018
Thoughtful non-fiction book about a set of parents who take on the challenge of living one full year without purchasing items other than the essentials for living (food, household items). Each chapter has a description of their experiences along with their reactions and how they cope with issues such as birthday parties, special outings, and the feelings that going along with customary giving. I found that each chapter had me thinking as well about what it means to give of oneself.
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