More Than Pretty Boxes : How the Rise of Professional Organizing Shows Us the Way We Work Isn’t Working. This is a really interesting study on the rise of the professional organiser market. It is a totally different angle and provides lots of food for thought. The individual case studies made it very interesting and added lots of depth. Overall a great book.

This was a super interesting study into the rise of the professional organiser - US focused - by someone who seems to have thrown herself into the job alongside organising veterans.
Mostly discussed is the role of the organiser not only in physically clearing space but also acting as a stand in therapist for their clients; and also that the societal roles of organising generally fall to women, and that's why the industry is mainly built on women helping women.
My favourite parts were the specific case studies and getting to hear the nuances of each job, and less so the academic leanings (which are not too hardcore).
Fascinating!

Interesting background on the professional organization field. Well-researched in depth and breadth.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Carrie M. Lane’s “More Than Pretty Boxes” is a thought-provoking exploration of the professional organizing industry and its broader implications on our work and personal lives. This insightful book delves into the rise of professional organizers, shedding light on how their work reflects and challenges the overwhelming demands of modern society.

Lane takes readers behind the scenes of real-life organizing sessions, offering a detailed look at the strategies organizers use to help clients declutter and regain control over their spaces. 

One of the book’s strengths is its ability to contextualize the professional organizing industry within the larger framework of capitalist consumption.  By examining the roots of our disorganization, Lane provides a compelling critique of the way we work and live.

Lane’s writing is both engaging and accessible, making complex sociological concepts easy to understand. Her warmth and humor shine through, particularly in her descriptions of the organizers she profiles. 

“More Than Pretty Boxes” also explores the gendered dimensions of organizing work. This nuanced analysis adds depth to the book, making it not just a guide to decluttering but a broader commentary on societal expectations and gender roles.

“More Than Pretty Boxes” is a must-read for anyone interested in the professional organizing industry, as well as those looking to understand the deeper societal forces at play in our daily lives. Carrie M. Lane’s insightful and empathetic approach makes this book both informative and inspiring.

Whether you’re a fan of organizing or simply looking to make sense of the clutter in your life, this book offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.

This is a great book to help with organization and decluttering! I think it was very helpful, I took a lot of tips and tricks from this book. I suffer from clutter and I am hopeful and excited to try tactics that this book called out.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, and especially the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review of the book!!