Short Synopsis
In her late twenties, Cait Flanders found herself stuck in the consumerism cycle that grips so many of us: earn more, buy more, want more, rinse, repeat. When she realized that nothing she was doing or buying was making her happy, she decided to set herself a challenge: she would not shop for an entire year.

Full Synopsis
In her late twenties, Cait Flanders found herself stuck in the consumerism cycle that grips so many of us: earn more, buy more, want more, rinse, repeat. Even after she worked her way out of nearly $30,000 of consumer debt, her old habits took hold again. When she realized that nothing she was doing or buying was making her happy—only keeping her from meeting her goals—she decided to set herself a challenge: she would not shop for an entire year.

The Year of Less documents Cait's life for twelve months during which she bought only consumables: groceries, toiletries, gas for her car. Along the way, she challenged herself to consume less of many other things besides shopping. She decluttered her apartment and got rid of 70 percent of her belongings; learned how to fix things rather than throw them away; researched the zero waste movement; and completed a television ban. At every stage, she learned that the less she consumed, the more fulfilled she felt.

Blending Cait's compelling story with inspiring insight and practical guidance, The Year of Less will leave you questioning what you're holding on to in your own life—and, quite possibly, lead you to find your own path of less.

"One is engaged by [Cait Flanders's] overall vulnerability and curiosity about her experiment--buy nothing except groceries, toiletries, and gas; cast off many unnecessary objects." ---AudioFile

"Followers of Flanders's blog will enjoy getting to hear the author narrate her own story and will appreciate her honesty as she shares her journey to self-improvement and being a more mindful consumer." ---Library Journal Audio Review

“If you’ve ever felt there must be more to life than consumerism and its vicious cycle, you’ll find inspiration to break free in The Year of Less. Cait’s highly readable and personal story is encouraging, challenging, and unbelievably helpful.” ---Joshua Becker, author of The More of Less

“Cait Flanders is a brave woman. As I read, I cried. But my heart also brimmed with joy. For anyone who doesn’t think they can, Cait’s story shows that it doesn’t matter where you start, only where you go from there.” ---Gail Vaz-Oxlade, host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt-Free Forever

“The Year of Less is beautiful, vulnerable, and real. Cait’s words inspired me to be braver in my writing and life, and I’m sure it will inspire you too.” ---Tammy Strobel, author of You Can Buy Happiness (and It's Cheap)