Not Of This World - Sterling Jaquith - A Short Summary and Review

 Not Of This World: A Catholic Guide to Minimalism - Sterling Jaquith - A Short Summary and Review

By: a.d. elliott | Take the Back Roads - Art and Other Odd Adventures

A Rite of Fancy Book Recommendation and Review

A Catholic's guide to getting rid of "stuff."

A short summary:

Not of This World by Sterling Jaquith is a spiritually grounded guide to intentional living in a culture shaped by excess. Framed within Catholic thought but written with wide accessibility, the book invites readers to examine their relationship with possessions, habits, and distractions, and to let go of what no longer serves their faith or flourishing.

Jaquith connects decluttering with discipleship, arguing that what we own, consume, and give our attention to shapes who we become. Through reflection, practical exercises, and spiritual insight, she encourages readers to simplify not for aesthetics, but for freedom, making room for prayer, presence, generosity, and purpose.

My favorite quote from the book:

"We must be intentional about the things we own, what we think about, and what we choose to do with our time."

- Sterling Jaquith, Not of This World

Questions to ponder while reading:

Are you overwhelmed?

How much stuff do you have?

My review:

This is a strong spiritual guide to purging the unnecessary, materially, mentally, and emotionally.

Jaquith’s approach is practical without being rigid, and reflective without becoming abstract. The advice is clearly thought out and grounded in everyday realities, making it useful for readers at many stages of faith or life. Rather than shaming excess, the book gently challenges readers to be more intentional about what they keep and why.

One of the book’s strengths is its broad relevance. While rooted in Catholic teaching, its insights apply well beyond that context, offering a meaningful framework for anyone seeking a simpler, more deliberate life.

This is less a one-time read than a reference, something to return to when clutter, distraction, or restlessness begin to creep back in.

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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life

She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.

You can also browse her online photography gallery at shop.takethebackroads.com.

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