I think this is the best of the current breed of books on new monasticism. it's as good as Jonathan Wilson-Hargrove's "The New Monasticism: What it Has To Say To Today's Church", and much fuller than Rutba House's "12 Marks". I've made it required reading in a course I teach on spiritual formation in communities and networks.

The author brings a deep wisdom to the topic. As a Franciscan, he has seen traditional monasticism and mendicant ministry; as the founder of an integrated, Celtic-style monastic community, he has led a new wave of intentional community. It is this combination which serves the book and its readers very well. JMT doesn't just talk about history; he lives it and finds a way that fits contemporary culture.

My main complaint is that it could be better edited. Lots of "and such"s and other colloquialisms clutter up the page, and it doesn't feel tightly organized. However, the meat is good. It's very approachable and provides food for thought for anybody interested in Christian community, whether from a Catholic perspective or another viewpoint.