Pierce describes how living in a poor bush village in Senegal when she was 20 planted the seeds of the idea of simplicity. She experienced first-hand how people who lived difficult lives without even the material necessities still laughed more, felt more, expressed more spontaneity and energy than most Americans. After returning to the US and buying into the prescribed professional lifestyle for 25 years, she stumbled on the idea of voluntary simplicity in an article. She says...

I immediately proceeded to read everything I could find on this topic. There was and continues to be a myriad of articles and books published about simple living in all its assets. Most of the simplicity books I read told me why or how to simplify my life, but I found little written about real people who have actually tried it I became curious about what happened in the lives of these people. What did simple living actually look like in the lives of real people? How did it translate into our modern day to day world? Could people who embrace this lifestyle sustain it over time? What were the downsides? Was it worth it? Did they miss their former lifestyles?

In 1996 she designed a survey known as the Pierce Simplicity Study and set up a web site for the project. She received 211 detailed survey responses from people living in 40 states and eight other countries. She corresponded with the study participants via e-mail and conducted in-depth interviews with 40 participants in the study. The result is these true stories of the tribulations and successes of many different kinds of people as they attempt to simplify their lives. Pierce comments on the stories to draw out similarities in approach or provide insights that clarify or illuminate the experiences of her subjects. She also gives other references are web site links to related topics.

One of the things that emerges from all the stories is the great variety of creative ways motivated people can find to work less, live on less, and enjoy life more. These people demonstrate that it is actually possible to have the now completely unconventional goal of living in a nourishing place and having the time to garden, read, raise children, pursue a creative vocation, spend time with friends and family, or take long walks in nature. And with creative thinking and planning, it's possible to achieve this kind of goal. Obviously when you sacrifice income, you sacrifice certain conveniences and options that you otherwise might have had. But as these histories make clear, the rewards can be beyond price.

Many of these people still work, either part-time or in a job they find enjoyable. But they have given up the struggle for More and are seeking a different kind of satisfaction. If you are a candidate for this lifestyle, you will know it by the real pleasure produced by reading these stores.

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