My book, Small Space Organizing: A Room-by-Room Guide to Maximizing Your Space, is published by Baker Publishing Group/Revell Division, one of the largest Christian publishers in the world. You can buy it from your favorite local bookstore or online retailer all across the world. (Book cover design by Baker Publishing Group)
DISCLOSURE: Reviewers/commenters on this page who received a complimentary review copy or gift book were not required to write a positive review; all opinions are their own.
Amazon Customer Reviews
Amazon's highest ranking review is 5 stars...
5 Stars "A must read how-to!" (April A. Renn)
5 Stars "This little book is packed full of amazing ideas that will take your small space from cramped to spectacular. Some of the information is priceless...Kathryn has a solution for every space in your home. I'm going to go through this book again with a highlighter so I will remember all of the ideas." (Rare's Reviews)
5 Stars "If you have a small space and need help organizing, this is definitely your number one book! I swear Kathryn Bechen wrote this book with our family in mind. You can tell this is a lady who knows her stuff." (Charity)
5 Stars "You will really find some wonderful tips...she has truly thought of everything, from your bathroom to your back patio! The chapter I will go back to and take it step-by-step is 'Home Office Heaven'...I look forward to applying Mrs. Bechen's wisdom and instruction in this area." (Loren)
5 Stars "Appreciate the small space you have and beautify it." (M. Schemanski)
5 Stars "Filled with tips and ideas for decorating and organizing rooms, closets, and really every inch of your home...applicable to everyone, no matter the size of their home...I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to make changes in their home, update various rooms or areas without spending a ton of money." (K. Ingerto)
5 Stars "I already have one bag of items I don't need anymore to get rid of." (Jill H.)
5 Stars "This is a book I will come back to over and over when I have the I-have-to-get-organized-mindset that hits me like a ton of bricks." (Virgina Garrett)
5 Stars "Mrs. Bechen made this important point about an issue that has plagued me since I've lived in a condo--how to entertain in a small space...I would highly recommend that you pick up this book! Kathryn writes in an engaging and 'homey' way; I would love to meet her someday." (Andrea Schultz)
5 Stars "Tips are shared for small homes, but equally applicable to any area." (Mommiejen)
4.5 Stars "This book was very helpful and gave me some new ideas. It will be a resource I'll look to as I move and set up my own place." (Cliane2)
4 Stars "This is a terrific go-to guide for downsizing and organizing...takes you through each room in your house and gives you suggestions for eliminating, storing, and maximizing. This is a book you can read straight through as well as being a book you can pick up simply for help with one particular room or issue." (Holly)
4 Stars "If you have no idea how to organize your clutter, this is the book for you." (Lollipops)
4 Stars "I found so many great solutions! I am still organizing and learning but some of the simple tips in here really made a difference and I can breathe again!" (R. McFarlin)
4 Stars "If you're living in a small space and looking to begin 2012 with some serious organization and decluttering, this book is perfect!" (Cafe Lily)
4 Stars "The idea that we should strive to dwell well is one I think all women would be encouraged to hear." (Anne)
4 Stars "This would be a great book for a teen off to college, for a couple getting married, or for anyone who's downsizing." (S. Braun)
4 Stars "Here's some motivation to declutter!" (R. Jolly)
4 Stars "Covering everything from creative dining solutions to playrooms and office space, Kathryn Bechen will help you come up with solutions to use your small office space as efficiently, but warmly as possible. I love that the tips are so versatile." (J. Steed)
Barnes & Noble Customer Reviews:
5 Stars "If you ever wondered how you're going to fit "all that stuff" into "that small space" this book will show you what you need most, what you can live without and how to organize it all!" (DorianSD)
Blogger Reviews:
About Your House (Interior Designer James Swan is the bestselling author of 101 Things I Hate About Your House)
"When a new book on home organization crosses my desk, I'm always keen on a refresher course. My pleasure was doubled recently when a new book, Small Space Organizing, by Kathryn Bechen, landed at the top of my 'to read' pile. Anyone who has read my book knows how much I enjoy a good house tour and Ms. Bechen doesn't let us down. Her comprehensive and detailed approach to helping us get our organizing act together is obvious but she makes what could be a dry listing of 'to do's and don'ts into a lively and informative series of events...I encourage you to pick up a copy of Small Space Organizing today and get a jump on the inevitable.
Adventures in Homeschooling
"This is one book I'm going to have to keep and refer to every time I have an organization issue."
(A) Book Lover Forever
"I read this book straight through which is a feat for me because I have trouble doing that with nonfiction! It is well written and organized. Even if your home is not super small you will find ideas in this book. Recommended. :)"
Books & Chocolate
"After reading this book, I find myself looking at things differently. If something (in my home)isn't currently useful or beautiful, then I'm questioning whether to keep it."
Books From the Laundry Room
"Every bit of space is used up to beautify and store. It seems the author could make a shoebox cozy and functional."
Carpe Libris
"I have struggled for almost 11 years to organize my home here in Tennessee...this book, Small Space Organizing, is an extremely helpful one for people like me...I have found many ideas in this book that I can implement right away...I will be using this book for a long while!"
Carlybird's Home
"I think the best chapter was Home Office Heaven. Our home office is a disaster and I know that if I could get my husband to implement Kathryn's ideas, it would be a much nicer place for him to do business. And I have a collection obsession--books...Small Space Organizing is a practical and useful book that I look forward to using in my own home.
Cheaper by the Half Dozen
"If you have small space issues and you want to be more organized, this book is worth checking out."
Christian Mom Book Review
"I live in a large home, and by the time I was finished reading this, I wanted to live in a smaller one, or even trade in for an RV!"
Cole Clan
"I would highly recommend this book if you are at all like me and are just not sure how to simplify, or you are just wanting to get more organized throughout the house!
Creative Madness Mama
“I would have loved to have such a guide as I worked hard to make my Boston apartment, a parlor room turned into a tiny two bedroom apartment, a haven for studying and welcoming my many international friends…her list of resources at the end of EVERY chapter is priceless and she leaves space for note taking in the book as well…not all authors could succeed at such a subject without detailed pictures. From having read this book, I know I will undoubtedly benefit greatly with whatever God (and the Navy) has planned for us in the future.”
(The) Cross is All
"Kathryn helps her readers create beautiful and functional homes by downsizing, organizing, and utilizing the inexpensive, the unusual, and the extraordinary secondhand find. I've read many organizing books, and I have to say this, hands down, is my favorite."
(The) Daily Connoisseur
"Kathryn's book is chock full of ideas, inspirations and resources to help you
clear and organize your home. She has so many lovely ideas that are sure to get
you motivated to de-clutter as she has mastered the art of living in a small
space elegantly. Check out her beautiful apartment by clicking here
to see what I mean."
Design 4 Seasons, Interior Designer
"...What makes her approach to the topic (of small spaces) even better is that she and her husband Steve have personally lived in thirteen small spaces themselves, and with Kathryn's concepts and style, have done so artfully...Kathryn makes the case for 'small space grace' versus 'big house blues,' for those of you that still yearn for more square footage...you might re-think that after you read what Kathryn has to say!"
Design With the Future in Mind, Interior Designer
"I think you will like this book. I found some excellent ideas that I have already started to use."
Disorder 2 Order, Professional Organizer
"Recently I read a book called Small Space Organizing...and I loved it!...She includes all the elements of a great organizing book...Kathryn breaks down the kitchen into brilliant manageable pieces...Small Space Organizing isn't just about small spaces, it's about giving you options and solutions that will work for you...a great book!"
Elizabeth Hagen, Veteran Professional Organizer/National Speaker
"I was thrilled to read my friend and colleague Kathryn Bechen's book, Small Space Organizing. Since we are going to be downsizing soon I was excited to get some ideas. As a professional organizer myself I was thrilled to see how ‘organized’ the book is laid out and how many new ideas I found. Just the names of the chapters are enticing! My favorite chapter is 'Home Office Heaven' as I spend a lot of time in my office and I agree with Kathryn that a desk can be ‘delicious.’ If you want creative and fun ways to organize your home, you have found the perfect book."
Eye-dyllic
"Kathryn Bechen is truly an artist when it comes to order...(hers) is not a 'one size fits all' book. It is about you, the reader, and what makes your own space and style tick. Unlike other organizational books, she provides a list of options for each situation, not just one solution. Her suggestions are resourceful, creative, and even romantic. She inspires 'small space grace' and instructs on how to 'dwell well.' ...As I am embracing the bliss of paring down, I am craving simplicity and order like I never have. Graciously, Kathryn is lending me a helping hand!"
Frugal Plus
"You can take several fantastic tips and decorate everything from your basement to a spa-like bathroom, no matter what your budget."
Healthy Home Dream Team, a.k.a. Ron & Lisa (Lisa is an interior designer)
"Kathryn understands the importance of not only creating a functional space, but a beautiful space merged with my number one priority: health. After carefully reading her book, I can honestly attest that it is a must read; even if you don't reside in a small space. You will definitely take away a tip--or two or three--that will save you stress for years to come."
Hop Into My World
"I absolutely love the cover of this book; just looking at it made me want to clean out my entire house! I'm going to keep this book handy for the different ideas as I go throughout my rooms so I can make our house more functional and yes, organized!"
(The) Jolly Blogger
"Instead of buying the huge 'value pack' this book has inspired me to only purchase what I'm going to need until my next visit to the store. Perhaps this will encourage me to eat fresher foods, waste less (due to spoilage), and the best part: DE-STRESS."
(The) Legacy of Home
"Opening this book is like inviting an inspiring interior designer into your life. Kathryn's wisdom is fascinating. She teaches you how to make the best of your small home. She also teaches the 'romance' of living in a small home. There is more to this book than just organizing. She teaches a lifestyle of living joyfully with carefully-chosen items around us."
Mason Canyon
"When it comes to being organized, I need all the help I can get. Small Space Organizing is a handy guide to help with all your clutter. The book contains practical tips and resources no matter the challenging space or budget."
(The) Old Painted Cottage (Check out Jennifer's newly organized tiny closet-turned-home office! Gorgeous!)
"I've been a longtime fan of Kathryn's...in her new book she has created an easygoing approach to making even the tiniest space not only work, but successfully meet all your needs with ease...I plan to put Kathryn's book to good use in many ways. First, I've already started organizing our kitchen drawers. Also, we've been meaning to buckle down on our chaotic, unorganized garage, and Small Space Organizing is just the kick in the pants I needed to rise to this challenge."
OverDrive Library Blog (Recommends digital books to libraries)
"Everyone knows small spaces can create the biggest challenges when it comes to organization. There just never seems to be enough space for everything. With creative storage tips and links to resources, this book can help transform your crowded small spaces into the functional and stylish rooms you really want."
(The) Painted Garden
Click here to see Erin's book review incorporating photos of her beautifully-organized art studio and home. She used many tips and ideas she read in my book.
Paris Love, Professional Organizer
"A must read. Kathryn has a wonderful sense of humor as she provides unique tips and solutions for organizing and decorating small spaces; it's as if she's in your home working side by side with you guiding you each step of the way. Her tips are simple and easy on the wallet. My favorite tip I will personally utilize is she writes love notes to her husband on index cards. How cute is that? Imagine being creative, loving, and organized!!"
Pausing to Consider
" 'Small spaces give us the opportunity to live sincerely, forcing us to choose which of our possessions make our heart sing.'--Kathryn Bechen (from p. 15 of Small Space Organizing.) I love that quote. Who wouldn't want to center on possessions that 'make your heart sing.' ? Why keep anything but?
Ramblin' Roads
"I found this book very helpful. If you are needing some motivation to get your space organized, I expect you will find it inspiring as well."
Ramblings of a Christian Mom
"She even gives advice on how to entertain in small spaces! I also love how Kathryn discusses how you can manage your life without so much extra 'stuff.' "
Reading, Writing & Ruckus
"This book is convenient to use...you can skip around in the book according to whatever area of your house that you are focusing on at the time. I highly recommend this book as I definitely see myself referring back to it time and time again.
(A) Romantic Porch
"Kathryn writes with humor and honesty about her life; she and her husband have chosen to live in small homes and she tells about this. This book is applicable to anyone who wants their home or office or life to be more organized and orderly for living well. Though it is primarily written to those who live in small spaces, I feel that the ideas she gives will help anyone be more organized in general, no matter the size or area of frustration in your home."
(The) Savvy Life, Lifestyle Author Melissa Tosetti
"Small Space Organizing by Kathryn Bechen is the answer to the storage issue...This is a book that will remain in my personal library and be referred to again and again. Implementing the tips will transform your home no matter what its size."
Smart Book Reviews
"This is a great book, and I think I'll give it to my mother."
Southern Home Organizers
"This book is as sweet and dear as Kathryn herself and you can hear her voice on every page as she takes you on a virtual tour of the beautifully organized homes of her clients, friends, acquaintances, and her own home. There's even a home office equipment and supplies list to help you set up a successful system for working from home or for paying the bills. She walks you through the process of setting up a filing system and processing paperwork--information that's helpful even if you don't live in a small space."
Splashes of Joy
"I like that the author realizes the emotional issues of getting rid of stuff. Making a list of things you need and want to keep, and things you no longer need is a wonderful idea, and one I will be using. I think I will do one room at a time, making it easier for me. The resources at the end of each chapter are helpful as well, because some of the things I had no idea where to find...I highly recommend this book to you."
Spray Paint Queen
"Organizing is on my to-do list for the New Year and what better way to achieve that than from someone who knows firsthand about small spaces and creating a stylish, organized space that's budget friendly. I particularly liked that this author personalized the book with her own experiences and I found it very down to earth and practical. I really enjoyed this read."
Sunny Island Breezes
"It’s one of the best organizing books I’ve read. This lady has lived a great deal of her life in small spaces and has discovered many ways to make it work. With Ms. Bechen’s guidance, you can work to create a beautifully organized small home."
This Mom's Delight
"This is not a strict 'do it this one way' guide. The author presents a variety of ideas, allowing you to implement one that fits you. I love it! I think my first step after creating my notebook will be to organize my master bedroom, then make it 'highly personalized' as the author suggests! I can't wait to get started!"
Three Different Directions
"One of the most inspiring parts of the book is the many times she relates her own and others' stories about how they enjoy entertaining in their spaces, even if they're small. I thought I had our smaller space pretty well organized, but after reading this book, and visiting her blog, I saw her ‘coffee bar,' and I KNEW I had to do that in my own place. So I did…and in turn that freed up a whole bunch of counter space in my kitchen, resulting in a cleaner, more streamlined look."
Under the Golden Apple Tree
"This book delivered. It also went beyond the cold hard advice and warmed it up with a friendly tone and some advice considering those living in the space and not just the space...gave me real advice that I used to make things less cluttered."
WORD Up!
"I don't live in a small home, but my family does have some unique challenges that make this book a valuable resource. There are questions to assess your space, website addresses for products and services, space for your own notes on each chapter, and plenty of ideas for embracing the 'less is more' concept for every room in the house!"
Good Reads Reviews:
5 stars "Kathryn has allowed God to develop a talent for small space organization and style that makes small space living livable and peaceful. I particularly enjoyed the fact that she included helpful websites and products and that much of it was very reasonably priced." (Abbie Riddle)
5 stars "This book has fantastic tips and spaces for notes, as well as a treasure trove of resources. Bechen makes even downsizing from a lifetime of memories seem doable." (Lisa)
5 stars "Having lived in 13 small home spaces...Kathryn Bechen shares her knack for organizing and enjoying smaller dwellings by finding the joy and beauty in smallness...great tool for getting organized in small spaces." (Melanie)
Kind kudos from my colleagues and friends:
(AUTHOR NOTE: Since some of the people below, and their families and friends, were mentioned in my book, with details and real names changed to respect their personal privacy, their names have also not been mentioned here for the same reason.)
"Congratulations on the successful publication of Small Space Organizing. The cover makes me take a deep breath! I am going to enjoy your book soon; looking through it makes me long for total organization. Great success to you." (Internationally bestselling author friend, speaker, and media guest expert)
"What a great 'anchor' book that sets the tone of your brand. I'm so glad all good things are coming your way! You've worked so hard and all you produce is beautiful. I help launch people who have potential and a deep sense of calling to fulfill the task in front of them. You had both. It's been a blessing; I'm so proud of you!" (International author friend, speaker, and media guest expert)
"IT IS GREAT! You did a wonderful job. CONGRATULATIONS! Warmest affection." (Author, speaker, and media guest expert)
"It’s refreshing to read someone’s opinion that small can be not only okay, but that it can be great and preferred over larger spaces." (Publishing Assistant)
"Kathryn, congratulations--the hard work has paid off! I love your new book and want to blog about it!" (Magazine owner/publisher)
"I like your book very much and as I was reading it I kept thinking of people I want to share it with. I will absolutely do my best to support it and you!" (Magazine article interviewee)
"The cover is perfectly perfect and I look forward to reading it over my break! I am so super proud of you! Continued success Kath! Love you tons!" (Good friend of 30+ years, and teacher I admire)
"It's a wonderful guide and I look forward to sharing your wisdom with my clients." (Veteran interior designer and design writer)
"I love it, love it, love it!" And how cool to give us your "51 ways to share my book" tip sheet so it's easy for us to share your book with others so they can get small space organizing help too! (Veteran interior designer)
"I love all the tips; I also don't live in a large space, so many tips were personally appreciated!! Can pass lots of ideas onto clients and also recommend your book as well. All of the best with the book."
(Veteran interior designer)
"I am sharing it with my shop customers and do intend to visit my local library about it too. I love your humor and play on words and I am so happy for you as your book comes to this point! I want to give it for gifts too! Love ya!" (Hairdresser friend of 25+ years)
"I love the cover, especially the orchid--a hobby of mine." (Virtual friend and book editor)
"Your organizing book is BEA-U-tiful!" (Virtual publishing friend and book author)
"Congratulations on all the success you are enjoying with your new book! How fun to be interviewed on Martha Stewart Radio! I'll be in the car and will be sure to catch you on satellite radio. Best of luck with your book--I love it!" (Veteran professional organizer)
"You must feel so incredible after having accomplished this amazing endeavor. I like how you have 'Your Small Space Notes' at the end of each chapter." (Award-winning and top-selling realtor friend)
"Congratulations on your book!!!! I've started reading it and am enjoying your voice in it! I know you live what you write." (Friends and dinner companions of 10+ years, professor and teacher)
"Congrats on the wonderful press you are receiving on your book. WOW, the Martha Stewart Radio interview sounds fabulous. I'm looking forward to your blog book party." (Writing/editing/consulting client)
"I was so excited about getting your book in the mail at Christmas! My favorite part was I could hear your voice in it and I especially enjoyed your personal stories of small spaces! Even though we live in a large space, I'm ready to improve my home office and pare down some of my clutter." (Friend of 30+ years and teacher I admire)
"I wanted to tell you that your book is already making a big difference as I plan for our new reduced bathroom space! I love the quotation you shared about keeping only what is useful or beautiful. That's been my mantra in my head all week as it's excellent advice. I spent an entire evening cleaning out another closet and it's so liberating to let go of "stuff" and create organized, functional, space. Thanks for the boost you've given!" (Publishing assistant)
"Kathryn, I am so excited for you and for the impact your book will make on so many people around the world. Imagine what a difference you are making in the lives of so many people! It was God's plan for you to have so many years of experience in organizing...I love your personal and friendly writing style that appeals to those of us who are more on the creative side. I love your lists of questions to ask ourselves and your many many tips. So many other books tell you what to do but not how to do and if they do tell you how they don't give options to consider to personalize it. Because you share so much of your life and personal experience, even a stranger would feel that they know you. Love the tips, resources, conversations at the end, personal note space and the fact that the book is filled with great tips for everyone...whether they have a lot or a little space." (Friend of many years/entrepreneur)
"Kathryn is a genius when it comes to organizing a small space be it an office, apartment, or home. I recommend her book to anyone facing one of those challenges or a better word, opportunities. " (Minister and multiple book author)
"Do you think I would get fired if I called in sick for the next two weeks and organized my house? I am reading your book today and I am just SO motivated! Thanks...what a great read thus far and the second half looks just as great!" (Friend of many years...who always makes me laugh!)
"I like your book very much and as I was reading it I kept thinking of people I want to share it with. I will absolutely do my best to support it and you!" (Magazine article interviewee)
"The cover is perfectly perfect and I look forward to reading it over my break! I am so super proud of you! Continued success Kath! Love you tons!" (Good friend of 30+ years, and teacher I admire)
"It's a wonderful guide and I look forward to sharing your wisdom with my clients." (Veteran interior designer and design writer)
"I love it, love it, love it!" And how cool to give us your "51 ways to share my book" tip sheet so it's easy for us to share your book with others so they can get small space organizing help too! (Veteran interior designer)
"I love all the tips; I also don't live in a large space, so many tips were personally appreciated!! Can pass lots of ideas onto clients and also recommend your book as well. All of the best with the book."
(Veteran interior designer)
"I am sharing it with my shop customers and do intend to visit my local library about it too. I love your humor and play on words and I am so happy for you as your book comes to this point! I want to give it for gifts too! Love ya!" (Hairdresser friend of 25+ years)
"I love the cover, especially the orchid--a hobby of mine." (Virtual friend and book editor)
"Your organizing book is BEA-U-tiful!" (Virtual publishing friend and book author)
"Congratulations on all the success you are enjoying with your new book! How fun to be interviewed on Martha Stewart Radio! I'll be in the car and will be sure to catch you on satellite radio. Best of luck with your book--I love it!" (Veteran professional organizer)
"You must feel so incredible after having accomplished this amazing endeavor. I like how you have 'Your Small Space Notes' at the end of each chapter." (Award-winning and top-selling realtor friend)
"Congratulations on your book!!!! I've started reading it and am enjoying your voice in it! I know you live what you write." (Friends and dinner companions of 10+ years, professor and teacher)
"Congrats on the wonderful press you are receiving on your book. WOW, the Martha Stewart Radio interview sounds fabulous. I'm looking forward to your blog book party." (Writing/editing/consulting client)
"I was so excited about getting your book in the mail at Christmas! My favorite part was I could hear your voice in it and I especially enjoyed your personal stories of small spaces! Even though we live in a large space, I'm ready to improve my home office and pare down some of my clutter." (Friend of 30+ years and teacher I admire)
"I wanted to tell you that your book is already making a big difference as I plan for our new reduced bathroom space! I love the quotation you shared about keeping only what is useful or beautiful. That's been my mantra in my head all week as it's excellent advice. I spent an entire evening cleaning out another closet and it's so liberating to let go of "stuff" and create organized, functional, space. Thanks for the boost you've given!" (Publishing assistant)
"Kathryn, I am so excited for you and for the impact your book will make on so many people around the world. Imagine what a difference you are making in the lives of so many people! It was God's plan for you to have so many years of experience in organizing...I love your personal and friendly writing style that appeals to those of us who are more on the creative side. I love your lists of questions to ask ourselves and your many many tips. So many other books tell you what to do but not how to do and if they do tell you how they don't give options to consider to personalize it. Because you share so much of your life and personal experience, even a stranger would feel that they know you. Love the tips, resources, conversations at the end, personal note space and the fact that the book is filled with great tips for everyone...whether they have a lot or a little space." (Friend of many years/entrepreneur)
"Kathryn is a genius when it comes to organizing a small space be it an office, apartment, or home. I recommend her book to anyone facing one of those challenges or a better word, opportunities. " (Minister and multiple book author)
"Do you think I would get fired if I called in sick for the next two weeks and organized my house? I am reading your book today and I am just SO motivated! Thanks...what a great read thus far and the second half looks just as great!" (Friend of many years...who always makes me laugh!)
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