Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
Rating: 5/5
Goodness gracious, this was by far, one of the best books I’ve read in a very long time. It could most definitely be given well over five stars. Present Over Perfect is a story: a story of saying “no” and saying “yes” to simple living. Niequist’s story-telling style is easy to read, and leaves readers wanting more. The chapters are short, but each is filled to the brim with truth.
What I love about Niequist’s writing style is the fact she doesn’t do “fluff” in her books. Nothing is made out to be what it’s not, rather, she tells life as it is. She doesn’t try to fill based space, or even carry on a chapter that’s too short. Each line of this book is thoughtful and put in place right what it ought to be.
As someone who often feels guilty for saying no, Present Over Perfect was a truth-bomb for me. I loved reading Niequist’s stories as she shared them along the pages of her new book. Each one was filled with her wisdom, and breaks you open as you understand the importance of slowing down in life.
Before reading Present Over Perfect, I honestly believed this book would be like any other: a 200-page book begging people to “make space” in their lives. What I wasn’t prepared for was the way it actually impacted me. After reading this book (very quickly), I’m no longer so afraid to say “no” to the things that pile up. In fact, I am able to do more with my gifts when I learn my limits. Maybe, just maybe, this small book was the start of something new for me. What I do know, though, is that it has impacted me in a way few books do. And for that, it gained a forever home on my bookshelf.
Bottom Line: Worth the read–again and again.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
