Tools for this page
Print

Real Simple. Real Life.

What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Anne Louise Bannon

REAL SIMPLE. REAL LIFE. is almost more of a life makeover show than a standard fix-the-wardrobe or redo-a-room-in-the-house kind of thing. Each of the show's subjects -- almost all of whom are moms -- are overwhelmed by the chaos in their lives, whether it's financial, clutter, or just trying to be perfect. Enter host Kit Hoover, who helps them come up with simple strategies to deal with their problems.

Is It Any Good?

4

The tips offered in each episode are mostly useful -- and indeed simple. But, as happens so often, simple doesn't always mean easy. For example, the solution to one subject's issue with perfectionism is to stop thinking she has to be perfect -- a simple concept that's extremely difficult to enact.

Still, the show is more fun than not. And it's very positive and upbeat, placing an emphasis on the importance of moms taking care of themselves so that they'll be better able to take care of the people in their lives.

Give Us a Minute, Get a Lot of Common Sense!
  • Age-appropriate best bets for your kids
  • Weekly email alert with the latest picks, reviews & advice
  • Post your own reviews and share them with friends

This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
A screen name protects your privacy
To post a review or comment you must become a Common Sense Member. It's easy!

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations.
A screen name protects your privacy

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
(optional)
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

We can make Common Sense just right for you. With a little info about you and your family, you'll get the most out of our site.

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!
Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations
A screen name protects your privacy
Register to add this school to your profile. You'll be able to see and share reviews from parents, teachers, and kids at your child's school.
I'm already a Common Sense member.
Kids under 13 must use a screen name