One Sentence Summary:
Home Comforts: The Art and Science of Keeping House by Cheryl Mendelson is a comprehensive guide to managing and organizing a household for a comfortable and efficient home.
Book Genre:
Non-fiction, Home Management and Care
Main Topic of the Book:
The main topic of the book is the art and science of managing a home, covering everything from cleaning and maintenance to organization and decor.
Key Ideas:
- Homes are not just a physical space, but also an emotional and psychological space that should be cared for and maintained.
- Proper management and organization of a home can lead to a more comfortable and enjoyable living experience.
- Maintaining a home requires knowledge of cleaning techniques, home maintenance, and organization strategies.
- The role of a homemaker is important and should be appreciated and respected.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
- Part 1: The Meaning of Home – explores the emotional and psychological aspects of home, and how it is a place of refuge and comfort.
- Part 2: Understanding Housekeeping Physics – delves into the scientific principles behind housekeeping, such as air flow, temperature, and humidity.
- Part 3: Housekeeping Basics – covers the basics of cleaning and maintaining a home, including various cleaning techniques and tools.
- Part 4: Housekeeping Critically – discusses health and safety considerations in housekeeping, and how to maintain a hygienic and healthy home.
- Part 5: Housekeeping Sympathetically – addresses the emotional and psychological impact of housekeeping, including decluttering and organization strategies.
- Part 6: Establishing Routines and Domestic Sacred Rites – focuses on creating efficient and effective routines for managing a home, as well as incorporating rituals and traditions into daily tasks.
Key Takeaways:
- Managing a home requires a balance of both art and science.
- A clean and organized home can lead to a more comfortable and relaxed living environment.
- There is value in maintaining a hygienic and healthy home for the sake of oneself and others.
- Homemaking is a meaningful and important role that should be respected and appreciated.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Cheryl Mendelson is a lawyer, housewife, and author. She graduated from Yale and Harvard Law School, and has written several books on topics related to housekeeping and home management.
Target Audience:
This book is targeted towards anyone who is interested in managing and maintaining a home, whether they are seasoned homemakers or new homeowners. It is also a valuable resource for those who appreciate the emotional and psychological aspects of home.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
The book ‘Home Comforts’ was published by Simon & Schuster in 1999.