My House Our House: Living Far Better for Far Less in a Cooperative Household

by Karen M. Bush, Louise S. Machinist, Jean McQuillin

With millions in the Boomer generation aging, single and still active, many are exploring non-traditional living arrangements. My House Our House is the story of three trailblazing women who came together to create a 21st century cooperative household. Alternative living arrangements account for a large and growing percentage of American households, and offer practical, economical solutions for people looking to live together for less and still maintain a high quality of life. CNN and CBS Boston report that Boomer couples are divorcing at double the rate of other age groups, and have less attachment to traditional concepts of family. Told with humor, affection and honesty, this book invites the reader to explore the challenges, practicalities and joys of moving from "my house" to "our house."

Genres: Nonfiction, Sociology

208 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2011

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A complete and detailed look at an example of successful group living, which manages to be both informative and interesting. A good mix of personal, but not overly personal, narrative about what led each of the three single women authors to set up their communal household, and very practical checklists and ideas for persons who may consider such an arrangement. I enjoyed reading it out of curiosity about how this could work in practice. The authors are frank in discussing the potential downsides and actual challenges they faced themselves, but make it clear that five years in, the arrangement is a success for each of them.

[Lynne Spreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of good information here. Many of us in the second half of life are thinking of new ways to not be alone in later years, yet still retaining our privacy and independence. These women found a solution. They're all smart and independent, and their book has a lot of great tips for dealing with any cohousing arrangement, even if you're just moving back in with family. I highly recommend it.

[Aja Marsh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not overly focused on retirees, and has a good set of base principles and things to think about for anyone interested (even if only casually) in shared/cooperative living. Skim read it, it was fine!

[Tim Jinks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good resource and info for those who may be considering some form of home sharing.