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CONDENSED REVIEW by Heidi Saliba Finally Organized, Finally Free by Maria Gracia Searching for ways to get organized can be as cumbersome and time consuming as actually performing the task. For some, the hiring of a professional organizer is the only feasible solution; for others, a good book or Web site is key. Finally Organized, Finally Free by Maria Gracia can be purchased directly from her Web site, www.getorganizednow.com, or bought in bookstores. The book, which is sectioned into 60 short chapters, begins with personality quizzes and descriptions to help the reader decide which (dis)organizational tendencies dominate their life. The quizzes are a tool by which readers can customize the contents of the book so it works with their lifestyle to meet individual needs. The book generally addresses organizational needs in three ways: by person or group affiliation, location within the home or office and specific tasks. In the introductory chapter, Gracia tells readers the only way to save time is to waste less of it. As an example of her own advice, the book is blanketed with bulleted lists, structured paragraphs and is straight to the point. Idea and action are equally matched in this book. Whereas many hands-on, practical guides lack the stabilizing conceptualization of theory and reason (and many idea books provide just the opposite), Finally Organized, Finally Free is a balance of both. Gracia provides both the why, and the how. The majority of ideas are very practical and self-evident. Inspirational quotes and organizational quick tips are found on each page. In the chapter on organizing filing systems, pages 100 and 101 have the following quotes: "You get credit for what you finish, not what you start" (anonymous) and "Planning is bringing the future into the present so you can do something about it now." (Alan Lakein) Tips from various contributors are found in quick sidebars throughout the book. Finally Organized, Finally Free can be used right away for those leafing through it, without the tedious commitments of time and intellectual energy most people are already short on. Yet, it is unique in that its potential for long-term, more extended use is not compromised: those with enough time and attention will benefit from it for as long as they continue to read. In a comparison of books with food, this one would count as nutrient-dense for the amount of information packed into 180 pages. Its style and structure, which make it easy to sift through, qualify it as palatable and inviting. (c) Copyright Jan, 2001 - The News Sun and The Evening Star Return to the Get Organized Now!™ About Us Page Return to the Get Organized Now!™ Home Page |