The book talks about the various problems of monasticism in the 21st century: where do the monks come from, how the issue of the economic survival of the monastery is resolved, what difficulties of a moral, psychological and everyday nature a beginning novice (novice) has to overcome. Although the author pays main attention to modern monasticism, the book is replete with examples from the history of monasteries and the lives of famous ascetics. The author thinks a lot about the essence of monastic vows, about the spiritual growth of the individual, about humility and prayer. The tone of the narrative has nothing to do with pious unctuousness; the author is not afraid to talk about the tares, of which there are many in church life, including in monasteries. However, the main thing in the book is the love for monasticism, living at all times, sanctified by the great goal: to follow Christ. The book is of interest to the widest reader, since everyone who is attracted to the Gospel, regardless of lifestyle, loves monasticism.