From the bestselling author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, here is a charming and humorous book about embracing life at any age.
In her first book, Margareta Magnusson shared with the world the practical Swedish tradition of döstädning, or ‘death cleaning’ — clearing out unnecessary belongings so others don’t have to do it for you. Now, unburdened by baggage (emotional and actual), she is able to focus on what makes each day worth living, and reveals her discoveries about growing older — some difficult to accept, and many rather wondrous. She reflects on her idyllic childhood on the west coast of Sweden, the fullness of her life with her husband and their five children, and learning how to live alone. Throughout, she offers advice on how to age gracefully, such as: don’t be afraid to wear stripes, don’t resist new technology, and let go of what doesn’t matter.
As with death cleaning, it’s never too early to begin. The Swedish Art of Ageing Well shows us how to prepare for and understand the ageing process, and the joys and sorrows it can bring. While Margareta still recommends downsizing and decluttering (your loved ones will thank you!), her ultimate message is that we should not live in fear of death, but rather focus on appreciating beauty, connecting with our loved ones, and enjoying our time together.
Wise, funny, and practical, The Swedish Art of Ageing Well is a gentle and welcome reminder that, no matter your age, there are always fresh discoveries ahead, and pleasures both new and familiar to be enjoyed every day.
‘Cheeky and concise prose … Magnusson is a wonderful storyteller full of wisdom, and this book embodies her attitude of exuberance.’
The Washington Post
‘A thought-provoking guide for how to take life in with clear-eyed humour — whatever age we are. Definitely read this funny, very wise book before you die. Afterward, its availability may be severely limited.’
Daniel Klein, bestselling author of Travels with Epicurus: a journey to a Greek island in search of a fulfilled life
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‘A warm, accessible guide to ageing with grace and art (and chocolate). I loved it.’
Matt Haig, author of The Midnight Library
‘Shows us how to prepare for and understand the ageing process, and the joys and sorrows it can bring.’
Buzzfeed
‘Though The Swedish Art of Ageing Well has a self-help-slash-advice-book aspect — most of the essays have imperative titles, such as “Eat Chocolate” and “Wear Stripes” — overall the offering has an autobiographical feel, including as it does Magnusson’s recollections … Her memories are springboards for insights … And it is with her customary plainspokenness that she shares such thoughts, adding her reason for writing such a short book: “Old people don't want to read four hundred pages — they may not live that long”.’
Nell Beram, Shelf Awareness
‘The Swedish secret to a decluttered life.’
Oprah Daily
‘She delivers insight, wisdom and good advice with humour, edge and warmth.’
Amelia
‘More than anything, Magnusson’s new book is about cherishing your relationships and allowing yourself pleasure — until your last breath. A philosophy as good as any, and she writes in high spirits and with playfulness, which resolutely removes any danger of her coming across as prudent … Margareta Magnusson is someone who goes against the grain. And loves doing it. I find this comforting and inspiring, anticipating my own presumed old age.’
Helsingborgs Dagblad
‘A few rules to live by even when the trials of getting older make it easy to complain … irresistible … how to make life worth living, no matter your age.’
The New York Times
Praise for The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning:
’Proustian … A primer on how to winnow your belongings before you die, so you don’t burden your family … Ms. Magnusson is the anti-Kondo, who takes us on a charming and discursive tour of her own stuff.’
The New York Times
Praise for The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning:
’A slim yet sage volume … While Japanese item-control diva Marie Kondo gave us strict instructions to only keep things that spark joy, Magnusson’s book is straightforward and unsentimental (with a bit of humour). The main message from this mother of five is: Take responsibility for your items and don’t leave them as a burden for family and friends.’
The Washington Post
Praise for The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning:
’Magnusson has something worthwhile and amusing to say to adults of all ages … This is not an orderly book for people who like dot points and detailed instructions, but a meandering personal essay that weaves memoir with household tips and a calm philosophy.’
Susan Wyndham, Weekend Australian
