Editorial Review

Once upon a time, Michelle McKinney Hammond’s lifestyle centered around the finer things in life—designer clothes, five-star restaurants, and bag after bag of high-end nonessentials. Then one day, like many people, Michelle awoke to find herself on the losing end of a most unwelcome and unexpected financial downturn. In response, she quickly went from “spoiled” to “fabulously frugal,” and with courage and a sense of humor, she made the necessary adjustments in her life.
Now, Hammond, a self-proclaimed DIVA (Divine Inspiration for Victorious Attitude), shares what she learned about her own spending, desires, and needs and how she adjusted to life during an unpredictable economy. Divanomics is filled with money-saving tips on fashion, beauty, home decor, entertaining, diet, housing, and more. ... Read more

Reviews

A Diva joins the struggling middle class
The subtitle of this latest book by Michelle McKinney Hammond is "How to Still be Fabulous When You're Broke" and she is pretty fabulous. But girlfriend, I have mixed feelings about this book.

Michelle McKinney Hammond has written an overview of how to live large on a small budget. She gives some sound advice: shop at discount stores, separate your wants from your needs, clip coupons, don't buy more than you can afford. She encourages women to focus on their relationship with God over their relationship with credit cards.

More autobiography than advice, some of her tips are definitely big city, single gal: make dinner out of cocktail hour snacks in hotel lobbies. This won't work for the mom schlepping it out in the suburbs. Never having had the lifestyle Ms. Hammond once enjoyed, I found my self thinking "I already knew that" through most of the book.

However, she has an incredibly warm and engaging style that makes me want to read more of her writing or hear her speak at a conference. I'd recommend this book for Divas whose fortunes have fallen with the stock market. For the rest of us middle class folks, I say "Girlfriend, we're way ahead of you."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Fun to Read
Michelle McKinney Hammond is a best-selling author of more than thirty books. She was also a co-host of the television program, Aspiring Women. In her latest book, Divanomics, she describes her personal financial trials and how she learned to get back on track. She writes from a Christian perspective, using humor, good-natured fun, and has a modern, hip tone. I don't normally like "hip" but she does it so well, I actually smiled often as I read. There is so much to glean from this book. Her own financial difficulties are actually fun to read. I mean, who wouldn't want to read about how much money she spent and how the upper-class have to deal with accountants to handle their money? Frankly, it was entertaining.

The book is extremely well done. At the end of each chapter, you'll find advice, questions, and suggestions to help you get a grip on your own finances. Her focus on God is inspiring and I enjoyed this book very much.

*I received this book from Tyndale House for Review purposes.*

Diva-lite-ful!
"Divanomics: How to Still Be Fabulous When You're Broke" surprised me, in a most rewarding way!

I expected a standard "how to." Instead I found pages of lively narrative, soul-searching questions, and practical, easy-to-implement advice.

I expected a "diva" attitude (you know, the "waah-I-can't-eat-at-$1000-a-plate-functions any more".) What I found in Divanomics is a realistic point-of-view that speaks to all women, and most enjoyably, a lot of frugal living steeped with spirituality.

Overall, this is a great guide for the newly frugal or for those looking to develop a more faith-based resource to help you cope with the stark realities of today's economy.

Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Who knew being fabulous on a budget could be SO...fabulous!
DIVA's every where shout hallelujah!

Divanomics is just the book you've been praying for.
Relevant, real, transparent and inspiring,
Divanomics will help you shed the shame
you may be carrying along with debt.

Regardless of your financial situation,
Hammond will remind you
that you are not alone while taking you on a soul
journey to freedom, fearlessness
and fabulousness all in the blink
of a MAC mascared eye.

You can be fabulous when you're
broke - Divanomics will show you how.

Grab your copy today!

Marina Woods, GoodGirlBookClubOnline
The #1 Destination for Today's Aspiring Woman
... Read more

Reviews

Good money management tips., December 18, 2010
I found this book to be worth your time reading if you're interested in managing your money and world wisely. So who isn't? Some new thoughts on different technigues that will help those looking for help in money management. ... Read more

Editorial Review

What if there were a way to cut through all the financial mumbo-jumbo? Wouldn’t it be great if someone could really explain to us—in plain and simple English—the basics we must know about investing in order to insure our financial freedom?

At last, here’s good news.

Jargon-free and written for all investors—experienced, beginner, and everyone in between—THE INVESTMENT ANSWER distills the process into just five decisions—five straightforward choices that can lead to safe and sound ways to manage your money.

When Wall Street veteran Gordon Murray told his good friend and financial advisor, Dan Goldie, that he had only six months to live, Dan responded, “Do you want to write that book you’ve always wanted to do?” The result is this eminently valuable primer which can be read and understood in one sitting, and has advice that benefits you, not Wall Street and the rest of the traditional financial services industry.

THE INVESTMENT ANSWER asks readers to make five basic but key decisions to stack the investment odds in their favor. The advice is simple, easy-to-follow, and effective, and can lead to a more profitable portfolio for every investor. Specifically:

• Should I invest on my own or seek help from aninvestment professional?
• How should I allocate my investments amongstocks, bonds, and cash?
• Which specific asset classes within these broadcategories should I include in my portfolio?
• Should I take an actively managed approach toinvesting, or follow a passive alternative?
• When should I sell assets and when should I buymore?

In a world of fast-talking traders who believe that they can game the system and a market characterized by instability, this extraordinary and timely book offers guidance every investor should have.

Reviews

Elegant summary of the core of personal investing
One of the advantages of a college education with a major in finance is that you learn the fundamentals, and, more importantly, you learn the boundaries of the universe in terms of what the field includes and what it excludes. Spend an hour or so reading this book, and you will also get that comfortable feeling that comes from knowing that you understand what personal investing is really all about. You will get the "big picture" and how it affects you.

I have been a full time faculty member teaching at the college level for the past 35 years and must say that the authors have managed to capture the essence of personal investing in about as few pages as I have ever seen and with a clarity that is very rare in books on this topic. I intend to make it required reading for both my undergraduate and graduate personal finance classes.

I might also add that any negative reviews posted to this site are likely to come from Wall Street brokers who make their living by exploiting the general public's ignorance on investing. These brokers don't like books that clarify and illuminate rather than mystify and obfuscate basic principles. As a lifelong educator, I applaud Goldie's and Murray's nobel effort to help readers educate themselves so as not to be fooled by the same Wall Streeters who disgraced themselves in 2008 and nearly destroyed our economy with their greediness. Anyone who feels they don't know enough about investing should read this book. It is a gem.

The title says it all - The Answer
You won't be getting this book from your broker for Christmas. You don't need to read a bunch of "Beat The Market!!!!!" books to develop a sound approach to investing. Evaluate your personal investment goals and timeframe, take a gut check on your appetite for risk, and accept that risk and returns are correlated. The authors make a compelling, data driven argument in under 100 pages that describes a "no regrets" approach to investing. Market timing, stock picking, commodity speculating, etc. ultimately benefit the trading pros over the average investor. Choose your asset allocation model with a few simple principles, then buy diversified global capitalism for your equity component with low expenses. And hold it. Done. You won't be the big winner in any given year, but you will likely out perform 95%+ of investors who buy the proven myth that they can beat the market. There are many purveyors of this snake oil, but few truth tellers. Murray and Goldie get it right, and this book is so short and to the point that you must read it.

the investment primer for everyone
I just read The Investment Answer this morning in under an hour and it is brilliant -- comprehensive without being overwhelming, easy for a broad audience to read and understand, and most importantly, easy for anyone to execute.

Over the last 30 years, this is the model we have used to invest, and it has served us very well. But we have not been able to articulate this sensible plan to friends and family (especially our children) in a way that was understandable and compelling. The temptation to "take the bait" from Wall Street is strong. Many friends and colleagues who are more "sophisticated" investors suffered the sad outcomes so elegantly described in the book.

Gordon and Daniel -- thank you, thank you for writing this book. I am placing my order for 10 copies to give away to family and friends this morning. You have accomplished what few have -- a lasting legacy that will positively impact many families for a lifetime!

All you need to know for a successful investment experience
Like losing weight, successful investing is based on a few simple concepts. However, also similar to losing weight, the concepts are not always easy to implement. It takes discipline to execute the simple concepts of eat less and exercise more. It also takes discipline to execute the simple concepts of diversification and rebalancing. Dan Goldie and Gordon Murray have done a terrific job of breaking down successful investing to a few core concepts. They explain the concepts in layman terms, always keeping it short and simple. The beauty of this book is the brevity yet clarity of each concept covered. You do NOT need to read a 300+ page book to understand investing. There is now this book, which is under 80 pages...but even a quicker read than you might think because of the font and graphs. I read the entire book in two hours one evening. I have an undergrad degree in Finance and Economics and have spent about five years combined time earning my CFA and CFP(r) designations. YET, if you simply commit to spending two hours reading this book, you will be privy to all the key investment principles that took me 20 years in the business to discover. Not only do I give this five stars, but I plan on buying 50 books and giving them away to every relative and friend I have. Disclosure: I don't know either author nor have I met either one. I'm just in the same industry and delighted that someone actually wrote the book that I wish I had written.

The book that I wanted to write!
Dan and Gordon have written the book that I've wanted to write for years, but never found the time. It is clear and concise. I read it in less than an hour.

The authors do a great job of explaining the difference between an independent investment advisor and a salesman working in Wall Street's broken business model. This is something that the vast majority of investors do not understand.

Even novice investors will find this easy to understand. Perhaps even more important, it debunks the myths that prevent most investors from achieving success. Read it and buy another copy for someone that you care about.

Perfect, Bite-Size, Investment Book for Any Level Reader
This book is a perfect culmination of: Goldie's experience with frustrated clients due to Wall Street gimmicks, explanations of why Wall Street's solutions are substandard, and an academically, exhaustive, investment remedy for every investor. BAMM!

The authors' abilities to "cut to the chase", and quit the "beating around the bush", leaves the reader feeling refreshed and informed. Simple examples and compelling stories will resonate well with all levels of readership.

If you are looking for a way to quit worrying about your investments, ignore CNBC & WSJ, and "drop" that confused feeling you have about investing, this is your book! Grab a cold Coke, relax, and enjoy yourself for the next hour of your life. You will forever thank the authors for presenting the information in such a light manner. I bet you will refer the book to at least 3 of your friends.

Run, don't walk, to get this book!!
Several years ago, Gordon sat my husband and me down to show us the beta version of this book. We'd been friends for years and he felt strongly that we needed to know how to protect our money. His arguments were so clear and compelling that we moved our investments from a traditional retail broker to an investment advisor with an investment philosophy based on the concepts in this book -- efficient markets, modern portfolio theory, diversification, and asset allocation.

For the first time, we felt confident that we and our investments were in good hands. Then the recession hit. Our portfolio did less badly than many and rebounded faster than most. And with this book, we understood why.

Run, don't walk to buy this book or download the pdf version. It will give you the peace of mind and sense of control that ONLY happens when you understand how the financial world really works. With what we learned, we felt ready to act in our own best interests. You will too.

Women should read this book!
Like me, many women were not handling their family's investments and are now seeking to take control of this aspect of their lives. Now that I manage my own investments, I wanted to make wise and purposeful decisions. I didn't want to just take the path of least resistance. This book helped me ask the essential questions and seek answers that suit my objectives. I finally feel in control of my finances!

The best basic investment book you'll ever need
I read Dan and Gordon's book cover to cover in about 45 minutes last weekend. It is chock full of very good data and excellent advice on how to invest money successfully, something most investors do not achieve. I plan on giving the book to each one of my children to help them better understand how to properly invest their own money.

Read this book before you invest
I wish that someone had written such a succinct treatise on investing before I first started investing my money. I could have avoided some very counterproductive forays into commodities, oil and gas ventures, and other highly suspect "investments". Read this book before you implement your investment plan. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The astonishing, uplifting story of a real-life Indiana Jones and his humanitarian campaign to use education to combat terrorism in the Taliban’s backyard

Anyone who despairs of the individual’s power to change lives has to read the story ofGreg Mortenson, a homeless mountaineer who, following a 1993 climb of Pakistan’s treacherous K2, was inspired by a chance encounter with impoverished mountain villagers and promised to build them a school. Over the next decade he built fifty-five schools—especially for girls—that offer a balanced education in one of the most isolated and dangerous regions on earth. As it chronicles Mortenson’s quest, which has brought him into conflict with both enraged Islamists and uncomprehending Americans, Three Cups of Tea combines adventure with a celebration of the humanitarian spirit. ... Read more

Reviews

A blueprint for making a difference
After four trips over the past three years to Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, and after founding Kashmir Family Aid (www.kashmirfamily.org) to aid victims of the Oct 8, 2005 earthquake, I whole-heartedly endorse Greg Mortenson and his work. This book adds new life to the over-wraught dictum that "one CAN make a difference." Beyond that, if one wants to truly get inside the rural Pakistani's heart and soul, this is mandatory reading.

My personal experience has been that once I met these people (and yes, had tea with them in their tiny homes, or in the quake region, in their tents), it was difficult to want to leave to return to the West. It's a hard thing to explain but Mortenson's book will absolutely do the job. A powerful thread within his story: It would be impossible not to love these people after getting to know them one-on one.

These remote village people are simple, strong and proud. Their lives are spent nurturing their families and working hard in a politically and environmentally tortured region. BUY THE BOOK, get inside the people of this place and then send Greg Mortenson your donation.

One man's remarkable vision
"Three Cups of Tea" is a compelling account of the difference one fiercely determined person can make in the world. I won't use this space to repeat the descriptions already covered in the editorial reviews, but Greg Mortenson's passion for educating children, especially girls, in the rugged mountain regions of northern Pakistan is truly remarkable. The relationships he has patiently built with local people and moderate Muslim leaders in the area over many years are key to his success.

In addition to education, Mortenson's Central Asia Institute funds projects that provide health care and clean water. He is also building schools in northern Afghanistan, again with the support of local people.

One alarming chapter of the book includes a discussion of the spread of fundamentalist madrassas in the mountain regions of Pakistan, which should deeply concern Americans, including the government. It is essential for Americans to support Mortenson's Central Asia Institute initiatives to provide children with educational alternatives.

"Three Cups of Tea" is very well written, with heartfelt portraits of courageous people. It is a superb and moving story of an exceptional man.

So Much More Than Just a Book
It's a book but then so are the latest bestsellers yet they offer nothing beyond a mindless distraction. To say Three Cups of Tea is about peace is to say that Mortensen goes hiking in the mountains. To say it's about building schools in the most desolate, remote, obscure part of the planet is to say an idealistic young man had a wild idea.

Mortenson and co-author David Oliver Relin bring the reader to the foot of K2, into a village so isolated from everything that there doesn't even exist a bridge to connect them to the world beyond the raging river that flows from the glacier fields. There Mortenson introduces us to children so eager to learn they work multiplication tables in the dirt without benefit of a teacher or books.

How does this man, so grateful to the people who saved his life, repay them? One school at a time. It's a truely inspirational story of what any of us, including a kid born in Minnesota, can do to change the world. The fact that the book is also a true page-turner and is so "can't put it down, don't interrupt me, I gotta know what happens next" good makes this must reading for every high school senior, every empty-nester, every one of us wondering what to do with the rest of our lives. Although I likely won't venture to the high mountains of Pakistan or Tibet, Mortenson has inspired me to find a way to make a difference. Go read it and find your inspiration!!!

STOP what you are doing...
you.. yes YOU behind the terminal, surfing the web, maybe finding that cheap chotcky to buy or something. Stop what you are doing if you have come across this book and this review. You need to read this more than you think!

Within the confines of 350 pages you can be transported to a world that for most Westerner's and specifically Americans, is probably very unknown, and more than likely, highly misunderstood. In this world you will be introduced to a man named Greg Mortenson, or as you soon to know him, as Greg Sahib..

The story that is told by David Oliver Revin, will not just be inspiring, will not be just teeth clenching, it will make you re-evaluate what you do in your life. While most of us may talk about the incapacity of the administration, or some (unfortunatly) the hatred of the middle East, or maybe some of you are even lying down in the streets, but there is ONE person who is TRULY doing something about the problems of foreign policy by litteraly getting his hands dirty touching the earth to build a school foundation, and risking his life ten times over.

When you have read this journey, you will be saying to yourself, did he really do that? That guy is CRAZY! Did that really happen?, the Taliban? , How is that possible? In the journey that is fortold of a change of fate through a failed mountain expedition, you can see what the spirit of the individual can do and how it can be transformed. As the events of 9/11 soon come to fruition, Greg couldn't be in a better place at the right time, and with David's narration, you are litteraly put in the drivers seat.

After reading Mortensen's journey, you will want to litteraly book a plane ticket to somewhere you have never been before. In reading the accomplishments of a somewhat flawed (hey what person is perfect) individual, you will feel small and insignifigant. David Relin will not just explain what Greg did, he will make you live it, with some enjoyable side narrations that will make you grin.

In Three Cups of Tea, David has managed more than anything to explain the heart of a problem (Islamic hatred of the West) of a very complicated nature (through numerous foreign policy debacles and politics spanning decades), and how one man knows of an easy solution (Go to poor regions of the Middle East and give education and extend the olive branch. Build schools for the poorest of the poor, ecspecially for girls. And more importantly, let them know that it was done.. by an American).

As if it was so difficult to understand.

I encourage you to take this journey and figure out that sometimes the biggest problems in life require some of the most common sense solutions. I also echo the other comments on here that you should buy this book from the actually CAI institute and consider a donation as well.

Greg Mortensen is doing what he is doing best, and his passion comes through the pages. For myself my passion is to write. Like Gregg I feel it is what I can do best (when I put my effort my passion, and my soul into it).

now if you'll excuse me...

I have to go write a check.

What an incredible story...
My goodness. I just finished the book, and I am in tears. I am a world traveller (32 countries in just about every region on the globe), and consider myself compassionate to a fault; but even I, after September 11th, possessed a fair degree of anger at Muslims. I had spent some time in the Middle East and North Africa, and although I tried to respect the traditions as much as possible (covering my arms, wore long skirts, not looking at men in the eye), I was still assaulted in broad daylight in a street bazaar in Cairo, Egypt, surrounded by at least a dozen of my classmates (an old man came up and grabbed my [...]). The anger that started then had totally blown up after September 11th and consumed me, the point where I had actually said that I will never believe Islam is a religion of peace, especially after the reaction to the Mohammed cartoons.

Well.

I was wrong.

This book has reminded me why I loved the regions in the Himalayas and beyond; the simplicity of life, the fierceness and protectiveness towards family and friends; and their incredible desire to do the best for themselves with whatever they have on hand, even if it means going to school on a bare field covered with morning frost. Greg and David describe these people in Baltistan and beyond so well that you cannot help admiring or even falling in love with these proud, strong people.

I've always told people if you encourage positive change for just one person, you'll change the whole world for them. Greg and his CAI cohorts have done that for literally hundreds of thousands of children. It was so gratifying for me to read, despite the selfishness of our people today, that there are still some who passionately believe in changing the world for others.

For me, it was the speech by Syed Abbas (on page 257, hardcover) that broke the last of my hard-core attitude towards Muslims and Islam.

I am off to make my contribution - meager but still a contribution - to CAI so they can continue their incredible work.

A MUST read
Greg Mortenson's three cups of tea is an account of his unsuccessful attempt on mighty K2, world's second highest peak in Himalayas. Though unsuccessful, his failure embarked him on a mission to educate people of an area inhabitants of breath taking hills and valleys and virgin plains. Whats mind boggling about his adventure is his spirit of self sacrifice for a people of a land much misunderstood by the west. His story proves that with love, compassion and sincerity, you can melt the hearts, even those of mountains. Rightly regarded a hero in Northern Pakistan, his book would go a long way in bridging the divide between the inhabitants of East and West. If you haven't read the book, you are Missing on something. Highly recommended.

Promote peace on Earth. Read this book.
This is the most amazing and inspiring book I have read in a very long time. I am a high school teacher and the mother of a U.S. Army Seargent who has completed a tour in Afghanistan and is currently serving in Iraq. I bought the book to send to him, but thought I would read it first. I'm very glad I did. The book is as exciting as an adventure novel, but it's true. Anyone who cares about the education and welfare of children and who desires to understand the problems faced in fighting terrorism should read this book. There is hope for peace in this world and Greg Mortenson is doing wonderful things to make it happen. He is a true American hero. Everyone needs to read this book and everyone who does will want to share it with others.

A lesson in altruism
This book is absolutely wonderful. Mortenson shows us how one dedicated person can make a difference. He also poignantly shows the world that education and non-violent assistance does a profoundly better job of winning support and "attacking" terrorism than warfare! (Duh!) I think there are very few Americans who would be willing to make the kind of sacrifice Greg Mortenson has but he has certainly inspired me to support his and similar efforts in the best way I can. In my opinion, he deserves a Nobel Peace prize. I would like to see this book in every high school library in America. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The success stories speak for themselves in this book from money maestro Dave Ramsey. Instead of promising the normal dose of quick fixes, Ramsey offers a bold, no-nonsense approach to money matters, providing not only the how-to but also a grounded and uplifting hope for getting out of debt and achieving total financial health.

Ramsey debunks the many myths of money (exposing the dangers of cash advance, rent-to-own, debt consolidation) and attacks the illusions and downright deceptions of the American dream, which encourages nothing but overspending and massive amounts of debt. "Don't even consider keeping up with the Joneses," Ramsey declares in his typically candid style. "They're broke!"

The Total Money Makeover isn't theory. It works every single time. It works because it is simple. It works because it gets to the heart of the money problems: you.

Reviews

Dave Ramsey Will Help You Become Financially Fit
I enjoy discussions about my finances about as much as I enjoy talking about my weight. I certainly need to work on both, but I'd prefer to avoid the topics if at all possible, thank you very much. Can I get an "amen"?

Dave Ramsey, radio talk show host, author and all-around financial guru, is no stranger to this ostrich routine. After his own bankruptcy he came to the conclusion that the key to financial (and physical) fitness isn't knowing all the tricks of the money trade; it's being honest with yourself. "If I can control the guy in the mirror, I can be skinny and rich," he says in his new book THE TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER.

In other words, you have to get your head out of the sand. Okay, I have to get my head out of the sand.

Leaving the skinny to other books, Ramsey is a prophet to those who want to be rich but would settle for being financially stable. It's clear that this is a large group, given the popularity of Ramsey's radio show and books. After reading THE TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER, I can see why they flock to him for advice.

Ramsey's principles are simple and straightforward. Pay cash. Pay off debts from smallest to largest. Create an emergency fund. He provides easy-to-understand answers to many seemingly complex questions about budgeting, retirement funds, saving for college education, and more.

Large pullout quotes scattered throughout the book offer bite-sized financial advice and factoids in Ramsey's typically direct manner:

"A new $28,000 car will lose about $17,000 of value in the first four years you own it. To get the same result, you could toss a $100 bill out the window once a week during your commute."

"Looking to spend $100 per month on life insurance? You could pay $7 a month toward term insurance and invest the remaining $93. But go with a cash-value policy if you'd rather have someone else earn interest on your investments."

"49% of Americans could cover less than one months' expenses if they lost their income."

"If your mortgage payment is $900 and the interest portion is $830, you will pay that year around $10,000 in interest. What a great tax deduction! Right? Otherwise, you'd pay $3,000 in taxes on that $10,000. But who in their right mind would chose to trade $10,000 for $3,000?"

All of this advice is helpful and eye opening, but what Ramsey really excels at is presenting inspirational tales of those who were once, but are no longer, in financial disarray. Their stories make up at least a third of the book, and the cumulative effect is that of a published pep rally designed to get people pumped up about saving money. And it works.

This is a must-read book for anyone whose looking for a little basic financial information and a whole lot of courage to finally put away the ostrich suit.

--- Reviewed by Lisa Ann Cockrel

Straight talk and a proven plan from this radio star!
If you're thinking about passing on this latest book from financial guru Dave Ramsey because you've already read his first New York Times bestseller Financial Peace, think again. Financial Peace is "what to do." Total Money Makeover is a step-by-step, nuts and bolts "how to do" kind of book. Dave takes the seven key principles of a healthy financial plan from Financial Peave and gives them a shot of adrenaline and a ton of muscle! He walks with you through each of the seven "baby steps" and shows you exactly how to accomplish each one. Along the way Dave shares dozens of stories from people who are working on or have completed their own Total Money Makeover. The result is a book that could replace all others on personal finance. Reader beware: If you're looking for the next "get rich quick" book from a guy with a calculator and no experience, this is not the book for you. But if you want an uplifting and encouraging book that will show you exactly how to build true wealth and will give you loads of stories from people who have done just that, pick this book up today! Dave knocks it out of the park with Total Money Makeover, and your personal finances could be doing the same very soon.

Must-read for people with major problems and for those with little debt
Finally, a book that speaks to everyone, from those who are complete financial disasters to those who pay their bills on time, but overpend and need to reduce their debt load. Too many books about debt focus only on paying your bills on time and reducing your interest rates, while ignoring the people who have too much debt and are too smart about it, never paying a late fee and keeping it all at low interest.

I have never heard Ramsey's radio show, but this book was a huge wake-up call for me. It is motivational and it will get you pumped to get intense about reducing your debt load and living only with the cash you have today. The strategies are excellent, the advice is solid, and people have turned their lives around under Ramsey's guidance. There are a lot of testimonials in this book, perhaps a few too many, but I enjoyed seeing the success stories and seeing the different kinds of people who turned to Ramsey's method.

This book has wide appeal and everyone should check it out once to give their finances a good sanity check.

This book is life changing.
This is the first book I've read that thows away the fancy models, throws out all of the crappy advice your broke friends have given you, and simplifies financing down to easy, understandable concepts. This book isn't for people looking to get rich quick. If you're looking for a high-risk big payback scheme, move on. If you're looking to build a financial future based on solid, time-tested concepts, this book will change your life. It shows you a clear path to financial success based on debt reduction, saving, and, believe it or not, giving.

Dave was a millionaire by the time he was 30-years-old. Then he went broke, filed for bankruptcy and had to start over from nothing. His concepts are based on interviews he's done with millionaires and an autopsy on his financial failure. His plan is rooted in very sound financial concepts such as: there is no way to borrow your way to wealth.

He lays out a plan based on simple baby steps that walk with you from your current situation (buried in debt otherwise why are you looking at this review), to retirement with enough money to burn. No matter your income level, mine is quite high, this book will give you a path from debt to wealth.

Here's the catch. This plan requires you to change your habits. IT IS NOT FUN. IT IS NOT EASY. IT CAN BE DOWNRIGHT PAINFUL. But if you put yourself through this plan, within 5 years you will be out of debt, and on a path to some serious wealth. I will be completely debt free with money in the bank and a retirement plan going by June of next year. I can see how I will retire with millions of dollars in the bank. I have financial security for the first time in my life. Dave's plan simply works. Are you fed up with living paycheck to paycheck? Tired of CitiBank? Tired of GM Finance? Buy this book and get intense. Thank me later when you're rich.

This book will help!
I am not stupid nor do I hate finances. In fact I work for a bank and love working with numbers, but until I heard Dave on the radio, I really had no clue. Other reviewers have stated that what Dave teaches is very simplistic. Thankfully, yes it is, but guess what...they aren't teaching this in schools, your banker is not going to tell you this and your financial planner may not even give you this common sense advice. Since listening to Dave, I have changed my current financial position by $20,000 to the positive in 16 months. I am married with 3 kids and do not live a lavish life style making only about $50,000 a year, but have decreased our spending and increased our savings. My wife feels more secure and the collectors no longer call.

I have never been given the impression that Dave pushes his books or other products. He does advertise them and offer them for sale, but guess what...he gives you the meat of the books on his radio show for free!

The question that I have for those that don't like his book or call him simplistic is...Since this is all common sense, how much of this do you already follow? If you are already doing this, then congratulations and you are truly unusual. If not, then don't put Dave down for repeating the basics, when most of us don't follow these rules.

Amazing book!!
I paid off almost 50K in less than 2 years using this book. Dave talks about using common sense, but more importantly addresses the deeper causes debt. Don't listen to reviews telling you that this book is too simple. Do you really want a complicated plan to become debt free? This book has changed my life! It is truly incredible. Thanks Dave!

Excellent Book with Two Minor Flaws
This book is extremely readable and contains a tremendous amount of helpful information in the areas of personal finance and debt reduction/elimination. Dave Ramsey makes a compelling argument for the elimination of all debt by rather extreme means. He exposes the common myths spread by the credit industry and offers a solution for eliminating debt through something he calls The Debt Snowball. My only complaints center around the fact that he advocates mutual funds as a means to achieving 12% returns over the long run and that he advocates National Guard service as a means of paying for college. I'm not sure that mutual funds can be counted on for 12% in the long run, and National Guard service these days can involve exciting times in far away locations like Iraq, which make the cost/benefit analysis a bit unappealing. However, this isn't a book about investing and the college financing advice is otherwise quite helpful. I'm sold on the concept of The Total Money Makeover!

Dave Ramsey is phenomenal!
I have been listening to the Dave Ramsey show on talk radio for about three months and was sooo impressed I bought this book. Dave has a great way about putting things into perspective for those of us who are in denial about our financial situation. His "baby steps" are simplistic and the debt snowball plan is a must for anyone trying to swim out of the dark hole of credit card debt. The book contains practical information, is easy to read and contains many testimonials and examples of other individuals in situations just like your own. Reading this book has literally been a life changing experience for my family. Thanks Dave! My recommendation...if you have debt, get this book!

Money Motivation
Dave is an excellent motivator and this and his other books (Financial Peace Revisited, More Than Enough, More Than Enough Workbook) that I have read are the best. They have a personal quality that others don't, and are right on target. I have sent this book to all my kids and recommend it for my overweight patients to help them with their motivation. It gives you definite goals to shoot for and a lot of help to do it. ... Read more

Editorial Review

“Your only job is to help your players be better.” That single idea had a huge impact on Tony Dungy when he heard it from one of his earliest mentors, and it led him to develop the successful leadership style so admired by players and coaches throughout the NFL. Now, a storied career and a Super Bowl victory later, Tony Dungy is sharing his unique leadership philosophy with you. In The Mentor Leader, Tony reveals what propelled him to the top of his profession and shows how you can apply the same approach to virtually any area of your life. In the process, you’ll learn the seven keys of mentoring leadership—and why they’re so effective; why mentor leadership brings out the best in people; how a mentor leader recovers from mistakes and handles team discipline; and the secret to getting people to follow you and do their best for you without intimidation tactics. As a son, a football player, and a winning coach, Tony has always learned from others on his path to success. Now you can learn to succeed for your team, family, or organization while living out your values—by becoming a mentor leader. ... Read more

Reviews

Great book by and for the Mentor Leader
The Mentor Leader is an excellent book that is both inspiring, challenging, and practical. Coach Dungy offers a truly unique perspective as a Super Bowl winning football coach, a devoted Christian, and a man who has benefited much mentoring and who has intentionally sought for years to have a positive influence on the lives of those he touches. The book is certainly not shy of principles and thoughtful teaching on the topics of mentoring in leadership, but it really shines as a practical and wise approach that has been borne in the laboratory of life rather than taught in a business school. Author of best-selling book Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life, he has seen firsthand "that the way to bring the best out of an individual or a team is to teach-by example and through one-on-one, step-by-step mentoring." The book is packed full of stories and anecdotes, but it is not just a random assortment of anecdotes. Dungy actually covers a lot of material, and arranges it thoughtfully.

Table of contents
Chapter 1. The Mandate of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 2. The Mind-Set of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 3. The Maturity of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 4. The Marks of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 5. The Moments of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 6. The Model of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 7. The Means of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 8. The Methods of a Mentor Leader
Chapter 9. The Measure of a Mentor Leader

If you're a fan of leadership books, you'll recognize ideas and quotes by leadership experts such as Ken Blanchard, Steven Covey, John Maxwell and others. If not, that's ok too, as he weaves these in naturally along with stories and real-life illustrations. Dungy also does a great job at pointing out where ideas like mentoring and servant leadership are taught and modeled in the Bible, especially in the life of Jesus.

Some of the topics or concepts that I thought were particularly interesting: focusing on strengths, the preeminence of character and integrity in the live of a leader, building a team whose strengths complement yours and each others, the importance of just hanging out and being present in the lives of those you hope to influence, the need to create a culture to effect change, and the idea of treating those you lead as volunteers. Now, there's nothing ground-breaking in any of this, but Dungy does a great job of modeling all of this, and of explaining it in a down-to-earth way.

Towards the end he finishes by acknowledging that a lot has been covered, and the idea of being a mentor leader might be a daunting one, a lot to remember. So he encourages us with this advice: "Don't worry about remembering it. Think instead about beginning to live what we've talked about - each and every day, in every setting of your life. And let me encourage you to start right where you are, with the people right around you, doing something as simple as engaging with them and talking. Sometimes the smallest things we do have the biggest impact. Just start."

Being a mentor leader is being about the journey, adding value in the lives of other people in every moment. The Mentor Leader should be of great interest for fans of leadership and football alike.

Mentor Leaders Arise!
We all know that mentoring is the best way to develop key character traits in others, particularly young people because it is based on the model of discipleship. You may recall Jesus and the twelve, and the impact they had on the world. Mentoring Works! Tony Dungy provides an excellent framework for leaders who may not have thought as themselves as potential mentors, and for mentors who would like to become better leaders. Mentor leadership takes servant leadership to a new level. As a board member for a non-profit organization that mentors at-risk youth, I gave each of my fellow board members and staff one at our recent board retreat. And now many of the principles in this book are showing up in our mission, vision, values, and goals statements, and are being implimented in the field. A must read for anyone who aspires to be a true leader or mentor.

Excellent
America is in the midst of a leadership crisis. Politically, socially, spiritually and in the family, leadership is in high demand and short supply. Concepts of what effective leadership is, have come and gone in our society, but I think the concepts in this book are here to stay. In the Mentor Leader we learn the importance of not only creating teams, but leading those teams in a way that helps them be effective in their roles. The goal is not to make the leader "look good," the goal is to help each team member be their best. That means the leader must help each team member develop their personal selves as well as develop the group purposes or goals. Definately worth the price and more!

I have read them all and Dungy's take on this is Spot On!
I was Looking for a book that was about LEADERSHIP from a SPIRITUAL persective. Tony Dungy nails that query with this book, Mentor Leader. Previously I avoided his books because I am not a big fan of football and assumed it was all related to touchdowns and tackling. I could not have been more wrong. This book is about mentoring and leading. Good title them huh?

He takes his experiences and that of others and tells how he was mentored what he does to mentor and all in the line of being a leader. Far from an in the ivory tower manager Dungy shows us how to impact others as the main idea in leadership.

Growing others to be leader even more Spiritual Mentors. He uses the Bible to explain his motivation to help others and shows his weakness and how he overcame them to become the Mentor leader he is today.

This book was for someone looking to help others a goldmine. I found this book to be informative, entertaining and Spirit Led. Not only should every manager who wants to step beyond "manageing" to leadership read it, every pastor, teacher and mother and father should grab a copy.

The message Tony wants us to get is that a leader cares little about personal gain and cares everything about doing what they do to help another find Gods direction in their lives. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Personal finance author and lecturer Robert T. Kiyosaki developed his unique economic perspective from two very different influences - his two fathers. This text lays out Kiyosaki's philosophy and his relationship with money. ... Read more

Reviews

Financial Literacy 101
Where do you learn about money? School? No! Too busy memerizing war dates. Parents? Possibly, but not likely.If you dislike this book you have probably bought into the Great American Lie of go to school, get a job and after 40 years you get a gold watch. And you are in rat race my friend.I have a gold watch already. It says to Barry Kaufman the greatest guy in the world from Barry Kaufman the greatest guy in the world. I didn't have to wait 40 years for mine or sell my soul to corporate America for a little cup of soup (called wages)I also suggest reading Who Stole the American Dream, Wave 4 and Turner, Turner, Turner: The King of Network Marketing.

Not for Harvard graduates
This book is definitely not for Harvard graduates. Typical Harvard graduates are too busy updating their resumes and pounding the pavement trying to find a j-o-b just like the one they just got downsized from to benefit from a book like this.On the other hand, for people who are willing to be changed; are sick and tired of the rat race; tired of paying for somebodyelse's dreams; tired of having their boss determine how many sick days they deserve or how many vacation days they can take will enjoy and benefit from this book. I also recommend Loopholes of the Rich and The Business School for People who like helping people.Slams at network marketing people by 1 star reviewers are predictable and stale. Question 1 stars: How is your lifestyle? What kind of car do you drive? Where do you go to vacation? How much did you pay in taxes last year?The investment advice is also right on. Just talk to all of the people who are losing money following conventionable advice.A house is an asset? Yes, if you are the bank. If you want to turn a house into an asset, it's very simple, do what banks do and become a real estate investor.As for that website that keeps getting mentioned here, if it really was that good there would be no need to repeatedly mention it here would there?RDPD is a OUTSTANDING book. I highly recommend it.My motto is: I'll do today what others won't so I can do tommorrow what others can't.The recipe is simple; just follow Kiyosaki's advice.

Excellent book - ignore paid bashers
Rich Dad Poor Dad is a life changing book that is why this incredible book has been a best seller now for over 8 years and is still in the top 20 of all books being sold right now.

Kiyosaki will tell you some things you don't want to hear. He is controversial. So is Donald Trump. Rich people are always controversial, but who are the people that make Kiyosaki and others controversial? Certaintly it's not the wealthy. The wealthy agree with Kiysosaki becuase that is how they became rich.

Kiyosaki tells us that a house is not an asset. I have to admit that I had a problem with that one myself. I a lways felt that real estate was the one safe have out there and like most, was taught by parents and other early mentors that a house is an asset. Then I got a house and found out that Kiyosaki is absolutely right and so were my mentors. A house is not an asset for the buyers, people like you and me but it certaintly is an asset for the banks, real estate agents, insurance people, the local government who wack you with high city taxes and so on.

The biggest problem is that many people think that a big house is a symbol of wealth. It is a symbol of wealth to the bank. Most people tyupically take out 30 year mortgages. How much do you think banks make on that while you are paying for the equalivent of three house payments over time?

Conventional wisdom tells us to get a great education and you'll get a great job. Well it started in the Clinton era and has been escalating ever since---downsizing. People who spent tons of $$$ on a college education, invested years in their jobs being servants to their employers and for what, to be downsized?

And then there is the typical way that people invest. Conventional wisdom tries to tell us that we can't do it on oour own. We need brokers (so named because they make us broker with their advice) or other financial advice. Those who do try it on their own usually get bad advice and go to deep, deep discount brokers looking for the lowest commissions or on the other end pay fees for loaded mutual funds which are supposed to be better managed (HINT: They are not!)

Kiyosaki offers a newer, better, more effective way. Unfortunately like some others who have come before him, Kiyosaki has stepped on some toes, the very people who are using your ignorance for their bliss.

Rich Dad Poor Dad is a life changing book. It is highly recommend for anyone who really wants to survive the new millenium.

I highly recommend Rich Dad Poor Dad, Rich Dad's Guide to Investing and Rich Dad's Success Stories (prooves that Kiyosaki's naysayers are wrong as usual)

Good luck!

Still a best seller for a reason---it works!
I first heard of this book when J.P. Morgan on the cover of the Wall Street Journal referred to Rich Dad Poor Dad as a "must read for millionaires."

Most people know by now that this is the true story of Kiyosaki's two fathers, one, his real dad had a high income but was poor. The other, his friends dad, but Kiyosaki's mentor and Rich Dad.

Kiyosaki learned that income alone does not create wealth as he learned from his "Poor Dad." Seeking financial freedom, Kiyosaki learned from his "Rich Dad" the keys to wealth.

Kiyosaki went on to amass a fortune and lost it. But remembering the lesson taught from his "Rich Dad", started over and amassed yet another fortune and retired at age 47.

The book will tell you some things you don't want to hear like a house is not an asset, 401 (k)s and so called "safe" investments are not quite so safe. That there is no such thing as job security and the world is full of "bullies" who will tell you how much money you can make, when and how many vacations you can take, lunch breaks etc.

Kiyosaki's "Poor Dad" was fired at age 50 and learning from this, Kiyosaki tells us that the only real security and freedom is in being your own boss.

Kiyosaki goes on to say that both of his dads were "honest, good, honorable men" but his poor dad, although a hard worker was weak and consequently ended up broke.

Interesting is that Kiyosaki pledges his first book, "If you want to Be Rich and Happy, Don't Go To School?" to his poor dad.Goes to show that Kiyosaki has class and truely loved his Poor but real dad.

Rich Dad Poor Dad is an excellent book. The main message is to take responsibility for your life. You are either a master of money or a slave to it.

In addition to Rich Dad Poor Dad, I also recommend "Cash Flow Quadrant", "Rich Dad's Success Stories", "The Millionaire Next Door" and "More Wealth Without Risk."

The best personal finance program available
Rich Dad Poor Dad is undoubtably the best financial book ever written. However, it is only for those who are willing to change.

I contend that it only takes three things to make this program work:

1) You must have a white hot burning desire.
2) You must be willing to do a few daily disciplines.
3) You must be teachable and willing to let go of old idealogy.

Many people have a feeble wish, not a white hot desire. They are not willing to pullthemselves away from the tv set, the internet or whatever (how much money is that making you or more importantly, how many people are you helping with those disciplines?) And many people are NOT teachable, they want to hold on to old dogma taught to them traditionally by parents and other early mentors so when something like Rich Dad comes along, they dismiss it because it doesn't coincide with what their early teachers told them. Of course it never occurs to these people that those early teachers were never rich.

Rich Dad has a great program. Follow these three keys. Read the book or listen to the tape or both and get to work.

You'll be glad you did!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY RICH DAD!

RD/PD the power of MLM????
I have read more than a half dozen reviews (probably same person) attributing the success to Rich Dad, Poor Dad to network marketing (MLM).I don't know if there is any truth to that or not, but I sure hope so.You see, I just signed up into a MLM company (not Amway) and if MLM can turn a book into a mega best aeller like some people have indicated, then that certaintly prooves the power of network marketing.And obviously Network Marketing (MLM) is far more powerful than that cheesy, supposedly well researched (it's not) website that gets getting mentioned here or the constant barrage of 1 star bashers (really just one person with a attitude problem) and obviously more successful than the self publishing industry.Thanks to RD/PD, I have reorganized my investments, started a successful business and am sharing this info with family and friends.1 star reviewer (s), get a life already!

Great books RTK
I just purchased Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Retire Young, Retire Rich and Rich Dad's guide to investing. I also have the tapes from RD, PD, CFQ, and RDGTI. These excellent programs by RTK have already made a profound change in my personal and financial life. They are a must for anyone who wants success.Two others are Millionaire Next Door and The Millionaire Mind.

Why listen to Kiyosaki and add to his wealth?
Best way to answer that is with another question. What is your net worth and how does that compare to what Mr. Kiyosaki is worth? Here is another question. How does your net worth compare to the many successful Kiyosaki students?

Less than 2% of people in America are doing well. Less than 2% in the richest country in the world!

It pays to listen to someone like Robert Kiyosaki.

Definitely NOT for Teenagers
If some adults can't understand this great work by Kiyosaki, how can we expect our teenagers to understand it?

No, instead, I would recommend Rich Dad's Rich Kid Smart Kid and then move them up to Rich Dad Poor Dad and Rich Dad's Success Stories after that.

Great to see the the Rich Dad books are still best sellers and that intelligent people are NOT taking that single one star basher too seriously. Poor guy must have a very boring life! ... Read more

Editorial Review

In his new book, Cramer offers the most detailed guidance he has ever given on how to invest in a changed market. Savvy investors will not just survive; they will thrive. Cramer begins with six rules for protecting the money you have and making sure that you have the money you need. (Rule Number 3: Skip the first four stages of portfolio grief: denial, anger, bargaining, and depression.) Your portfolio won't fix itself; you have to do that. It's easy to close your eyes and pretend that it all never happened, but you'll never get back to even that way, much less profit from the opportunities that this new market offers to investors who know where to put their money. One key to making investment decisions is to watch what the mutual-fund managers are doing and -- better yet -- to anticipate their moves. Cramer tells you how to do this. Their decisions will move markets, and you want to profit from these moves.

Cramer explains why dividends may be another key to picking winners in the post-crash stock market, and he introduces a category he calls the accidental high yielders -- stocks whose prices have taken a beating, boosting their yields. Some of these stocks could make a major move upward; Cramer tells you how to spot the ones that could take off.

For the first time in any of his books, Cramer offers a portfolio of twelve stocks that he says are poised to profit from the economic recovery. And he gives investors a list of five regional banks that could make big moves and return a handsome reward to shareholders. As always, Cramer explains why investors can't just take his word but have to "buy and homework" on these stocks to make sure that their stories don't change.

If you're near or in retirement, your opportunities to recover and profit are more limited than those of younger investors. Cramer tells you why stocks should still be an important part of your investment portfolio. And for younger investors, Cramer explains why you must take advantage of what could be a rare opportunity to buy stocks at fabulous prices and set up a terrific portfolio.

Cramer offers advanced tips for investors who have the time and are willing to invest it to profit from the post-crash stock market. Call options may seem like exotic and dangerous investment tools, but Cramer shows why they can be a conservative investing strategy that can bring quick returns in a recovering market. He explains how to use IPOs and secondary offerings wisely to juice your investment portfolio.

And as if all that weren't enough, Cramer has come up with twenty-five new rules for the post-crash market. (Rule Number 4: It pays to follow the dumb money.)

Getting Back to Even is indispensable for any investor still reeling in shock from the 2008-2009 market collapse and wondering where to go from here. From investment strategies to specific stock recommendations, it's the foundation for the portfolios that will soar when the economic recovery takes hold. ... Read more

Reviews

Financial First-Aid - Cramer Style
First a caveat, Jim Cramer seriously annoys me. I rarely ever watch his show (especially after the notorious "melt-down") and less frequently read his books. However, as a college instructor and business writer, I read a lot of business books and make a point of keeping up with what is in the popular press since it tends to come up in daily questions etc...admittedly, I was also curious how well a book claiming to help people "Get back to Even" was going to do in the ratings...it's certainly a modest proposal at best and a constant reminder of financial pain at worst. Much to my surprise, Cramer actually mentions this early in the text so score one for Cramer!

The book is easy to read with a purely conversational tone; those that enjoy Cramer will feel right at home while those such as myself will still manage to get through it without constant irritation like listening to him on television. There is an abundant use of examples to explain any all all technical terms no matter how simple or complex but they do not (usually) insult the readers intelligence but rather enhance the reading nicely. The author assumes the reader has minimal prior exposure and takes little for granted so even novice investors or those that have always had their portfolio managed by someone other than themselves will not need to read with references in hand.

Now, as to the core of the concepts covered in the book itself. Cramer begins by presenting 8 new rules which are more or less "common sense" but well worth repeating given the typical lack of financial savvy of most "investors". I suspect most people will enjoy the statistics and rationale more than the actual "rules" themselves but it effective presents a foundation from which the rest of the book is written while acting as the typical disclaimer for all financial related books (ie, get your basics covered first).

Like any investment related book, there are likely areas to agree and disagree with...but if one manages to pick up a few nuggets it is well worth the time and effort to read. This book is no exception. Cramer is Pro diversification, gold/precious metals, dividends, performing your own research and weekly updates for stocks that you select. He goes into more detail than usual in how to research these stocks, his rationale for selection criteria and examples from both sucessful and non-successful examples in his own past.

For those that are well versed in reading/understanding financial statements, most of this will be rudimentary but as a person that routinely deals with people in various stages of financial literacy - there is a strong need for user-friendly information that can be applied directly to one's own portfolio. Cramer earns an "A"...he keeps the information direct, relevant and easy to understand while covering the flaws and limitations of everything from valuation to growth rates and the impact of "big money".

After a fairly robust section on dividends (like a dividends 101 abbreviated course), Cramer goes on to name 12 stocks to watcch for the recovery including a few well placed plus for his show and newsletter. As a general rule, I despise books that are thinly veiled marketing materials but in this case, didn't dock a point from the review because he showed quite a bit of self restraint and kept it to a minimum. Each recommendation is supported by a full rational including areas serviced, history, future potential etc as would be expected. Whether you agree or not, each is well worth the time for consideration and/or to use as a foundation for your own selections.

Bottom line - worth the time and effort to read. Novice investors will appreciate the examples and conversational style, more experienced investors will appreciate the actual stock selections with rational behind each even if you disagree. I suspect one of the largest complaints will be on what is NOT included in this book as well as the typical (and expected) diagreement surrounding Cramer's general investment advice...of course, readers should not expect a radical departure and will get what is expected in terms of Cramer's general investment orientation, style etc...

Great book for beginners
I admit I love his show but the real reason I give this book 5 stars is for the Options chapter. Every option site I have viewed made it seem so complicated, which it can be, but buying call options is as easy as it gets and for me so far very profitable.

Cramer shows investors how to get their portfolio back to even
I would buy this book regardless of what your personal opinion is of Jim Cramer. My investing and stock trading style is very different from his but I agree with him on most points in this book. In this book Cramer focuses on many risk adjusted strategies that over time will bring your portfolios back to even, if you are down the 30-50% like most investors are in the past two years. (I am a trend follower and did my homework on the fundamentals so I went to cash on January 4th, 2008). I completely agree with Cramer's advice to never buy and hold, but buy and homework. I know this is true from personal experience. Cramer also points out that if your investments drop by 50% you must have a 100% return to get back to even. If $100,000 drops by 50% to $50,000 it has to go back up 100% to get back to $100,000. This is sobering, however I would also like to point out that a compounded 12% return six times is a 100% return, this is certainly possible and this book will show you many ways to accomplish this.

1). Jim suggests buying great stocks at good prices, he advises not to chase stocks but wait for pullbacks to buy what you want at the right price. never chase a stock when it goes beyond a reasonable price. (This also explains why he loves certain stocks then a week later does not, the stock became to expensive).

2). He gives great strategies on how to use the right dividend stocks to get steady low tax returns. Dividend stocks hold value better than other stocks in huge sell offs. He shows how to choose the ones with strong steady earnings to get the ones that are accidentally high yielders and avoid the ones about to cut their dividends due to declining earnings.

3). He gives you twelve specific stocks that he believes will benefit greatly when the full economic recovery takes place. They are all very strong companies in different sectors: construction, financial, industrial, housing, and oil, etc.

4). He suggests investing in companies that will benefit from the growing world of wireless internet. He believes that the growth in this industry will be a growth story of epic proportions.

5). He gives names of regional banks with strong balance sheets, and good loan practices, that are poised for growth through takeovers and better management. Cramer has seen this before in the savings and loan disaster and recovery of the early 90's.

6). For the first time in one of his books Jim Cramer explains how to use deep in the money call options intelligently for low risk returns.

7). He urges us not to become perma-bears and miss the recovery. Things will recover and we must be invested to take advantage of it when it arrives.

The book ends with twenty-five new rules for post-apocalyptic trading. Which gives some great advice including how to use secondary stock offerings to make money by buying in at the right time. Also, how to choose the right IPO to buy based on who is taking it public. At the end of the book he rails against the dangers of double and triple leverages ETFs, showing how they have daily returns that in the long term do not mirror the index it is reflecting. You can be short a double leverged financial ETF and still not make money after the financial sector crashes for two months due to volatility and daily rebalancing. They are strictly for day traders.(I agree, and I have done very well day trading them, but they are also sometimes great for trend following for days and sometimes weeks).

I really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would and learned several things to help me in my investing and trading. I highly recommend it for anyone starting on the road to get you portfolio back to even or just get great returns from being a more informed investor.

Good book
I really like the book. Thanks Jim Cramer for the investment insight again.

1. One thing what Jim talks about is how the mutual fund play in the stock market.
2. This is important you need to buy stocks when the market is in a uptrend and a stock which is hitting the 52 weeks high is going to go higher.
3. Also investment is about gaining knowledge.
4. One other important lesson in investment is how and when to sell your stocks.
5. The most important rule as I learned from William O Neil or IBD ( Investors Business Daily) is sell a stock when it goes below 8% of your purchase price.
6. If one had followed this rule people would have conserved their hard earned capital in 2001 and 2008.
7. Jim covers in details about Visa and Apple, two powerful stocks for the next 5 years atleast.
8. Its true what he has stated stocks have produced the best return if we go back to last 8 decades.
9. But in investment one needs discipline, understanding, patience, when to buy, when to sell.

Lastly I would encourage retail investors to do their own research and homework. For that along with Jim Cramer one should be a a serious reader of
Investors Business Daily. In fact even Jim reads it. If you look at his recent shows he talks about arcsight, Salesforce, Apple, Visa , Flir systems they
are all covered in detail in IBD. One place where Jim lost out this year in 2009 was in Chinese stocks. He kept talking about Chinese ETFs whereas the
reality was when the uptrend started in March 2009, it was led by Chinese stocks like SNDA, NTES, PWRD, BIDU, ASIA, RINO. They were extensively covered in IBD.
To be a successful retail one needs to be diversified in their research as well. So combine IBD with Jim's books and also the book of Jesse Livermore,
Gerald O Loeb, Nicholas Darvis and one will be a winner in the long run.

Investment is a long term process of learning. Good luck and best wishes.

Informative and encouraging approach for those looking for help
This book is a practical resource for getting an understanding of working with equities and includes principles that will outlive the specific picks suggested in the book. Great foundation for Jim Cramer's show MadMoney, which I also find very useful. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Never before have we read such jarring headlines, distressing news analyses, or dire predictions concerning the world's financial future. The American housing market -- or, more sentimentally, the American dream -- began to collapse in 2006, taking with it large chunks of the global financial system. Millions of jobs worldwide have vanished forever. Did Bible prophecy predict this catastrophe? Are there biblical clues to how soon, if ever, a viable, long-term recovery can be sustained? Is the financial collapse just one of several signs that we are living in the final days of Earth's history In THE COMING ECONOMIC ARMAGEDDON, David Jeremiah says we can know the meaning behind what we see in the daily news -- and understand and prepare for living in the New Global Economy. ... Read more

Reviews

Completes Trilogy of Books on Recent Events, October 1, 2010
This third book in a recent series may form a trilogy of sorts. The other two recent books [What in the World is Going On? and Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World] spoke of current events and how to navigate through them as this book does. Essentially this book covers four areas: the coming New World Order, the President of the Order (AntiChrist), the coming collapse of currency and present financial system, and finally Biblical hopes to navigate through it. Not a book that pursues subjects to an extreme depth, but more a book that gives the most recent information (and some of it is very helpful and interesting) and when I finished I had a lot to think about and wanted to re-read the book. My understanding is David J. worked exceptionally long researching this book and it shows. Rarely lags. Carries some occasional familiar traditional evangelical endtime theology, but not to the point of interference, only making points. An excellent primer for those new to the subject as well as those wishing current information. David Jeremiah is never lost time when you read or listen to what he has to say.

Closer to home, October 4, 2010
Dr. Jeremiah does a fantastic job of unpacking how Bernie Madoff and other crooks like him set up the Global Economy for an armageddon. It is very sobering to realize the financial mess that we are in, and heart-breaking to realize how we got there. Wait until you learn about the 'Debt Iceberg' that has America crippled. It is unbelievable.

I know from reading the news that this stuff is too real. If there is a positive to come out of all this, I guess I am at least glad that Bible prophecy has spoken on these issues. It is comforting to know that God is ultimately in control.

Here are all the chapters in the book:
1. The Fall of the American Economy
2. The New World Order
3. The New Global Economy
4. From Crisis to Consolidation
5. Satan's CEO
6. The Mark of the Beast
7. Financial Signs of the End Times
8. The Collapse of the Global Financial Market
9. God's Ultimate New World Order
10. Keep Your Head in the Game and Your Hope in God

The Coming Economic Armageddon, October 5, 2010
Dr. Jeremiah writes from a wealth of research and Biblical knowledge. Although he presents facts not easily found in the traditional media, he does not write to scare but to inform the reader. The economic crisis in this country, in fact in this world, is frightening. It is a subject that I try to leave to those who truly understand the economy and give me tidbits of information that I can handle, or ignore. I was interested in what Dr. Jeremiah had to say because of his scholarly approach to the subject, and because without exception, every book that I have read by Dr. Jeremiah always speaks of hope, something that the economists of today don't seem to have. It is evident that there is unrest and fear in this country for many reasons, but the media would have us believe that the economy is one issue, a difficult issue, better left to the "experts", or to a two minute blurb on the evening news. I don't want to be an expert. I do want to be better informed, and I found that through reading this book, even I could understand some of the issues and know that there is a plan. More importantly, I felt that by having the information presented in this book, I now have a resource to encourage friends and family.

Incredible Resource, October 5, 2010
Dr. David Jeremiah's riveting book is an incredible resource to everyone--especially to families as we raise children during this economic crisis. His financial counsel teaches how to wisely manage our money and keep our homes in order for the difficult days ahead. Dr. Jeremiah's extensive research brings clarity to the news reports we hear/read every day, which helps us explain to our children what's happening in the world around us from a biblical perspective. He explains advanced technology that sets the stage for the One World Government predicted in the Bible so we are not caught unaware of the advancing threats to our society.

THE COMING ECONOMIC ARMAGEDDON gives crucial facts about present and future economic changes in our world that we need to understand from the Bible's perspective. Dr. Jeremiah's book powerfully reminds us that God is the only One to give shelter in this world's chaos, and He gives the biblical counsel we need to stand firm with our hope in God.

Sobering Analysis of Economic Conditions, October 4, 2010
Dr. Jeremiah is a good writer and does a great job of explaining, in sobering terms, how we ended up in the economic mess that we are in; and, more importantly, where we are going. He does so via the science/art of economics and, of course, by understanding God's infallible prophetic Word. My degree is in Business Management and I read a lot about economics (in fact, Peter Schiff's recent book entitled "Crash Proof 2.0" is a great book from a secular author that echoes much of what Jeremiah says--though I think Jeremiah's is better since it approaches the subject from a Christian worldview). I have also studied Bible prophecy for many years (and wrote a book that is becoming increasingly popular). I say that to hopefully explain that I especially enjoy the subjects of economics and Bible prophecy and, thus, can write with reasonable authority that David Jeremiah addresses both of those topics exceptionally well.

He explains how the world economy is more interrelated than ever. There is also a good presentation of how the Social Security System is, more or less, a grand "ponzi scheme" on the brink of collapse. He also explains how the economic health of a "superpower" can impact many other areas of a nation, such as it's international political and military influence. A good explanation of how debt at either an individual or national level eventually leads to serious financial problems and that pumping "fiat money" into an economy at the rate we have will lead to inflation is provided. We know that scenario (inflation, wherein it will take a day's wages just to buy food) is predicted to happen in the end times according to Revelation 6:6.

Further in the book Jeremiah turns to what he knows best: end times prophecy. As a result, the reader will find a rock solid discussion of how a "new world order" will play a role in the end times, how the Antichrist will be able to control who may buy and sell, the mark of the beast, and other important topics. Readers of his previous books, such as "What in the World is Going On?", will find a good bit of redundancy; but they will also see it being explained from a more economic angle. If you haven't read a previous book by Dr. Jeremiah, I think one could jump right into this one and not miss much and, thus, since this one is most current, I would say get this one.

In the end, Dr Jeremiah delivers a good book well worth reading and, once again, makes a valuable contribution to the idea that Christians should now, more than ever, learn as much as possible about end-times Bible prophecy given the times in which we live.


Jeffrey R. Camino, Author
Pray That You May Escape

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Can This Really Happen To Us?, November 20, 2010
Most of us have difficulty imagining huge changes drastically altering our lives; those are what happen to someone else, not us. In this country we have been greatly blessed in that our lives have not been directly impacted by most of the major events that have changed the lives of people in other parts of the world.

As a boy I remember watching the newsreels about the Second World War and its impact on people in remote places like England, Japan, France and Germany. Although we had rationing and collected waste paper for the war effort we always had our homes, safe and secure from the ravages of war.

Dr. Jeremiah describes in this book a scenario in which that immunity from change no longer exists; people all over the world, including us, will be involved this time in events that will change the face of the globe forever. These events are too big to even imagine and are so far reaching that really nothing can be done to prevent them or even alleviate their impact on our lives.

This book is the story of the end of the world as we know it told from a Biblical, Christian perspective. As a Christian I found it both disturbing and inspiring; I long for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ and know that terrible things will have to happen first; it doesn't make the thought of those terrible things any less disturbing to know that they too will come to pass.

Because I have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, I believe I will be removed in an event called "the Rapture of the church" before the most serious events described take place. Dr. Jeremiah points out that this is the next event on God's prophetic calendar and could happen at any time. What the Lord does not tell His church is how bad it will get before the church is removed.

The Lord condemned the Pharisees for not knowing the signs of the times; this stands as a warning to us today to observe the signs of the times that are being manifested all around us. This book is an effort to describe events today and show how they fit in to the prophetic scenario described in the Bible for the end of the age.

The book points the reader to Christ as the answer. I join Dr. Jeremiah as I too believe there is no safety net that will deliver us out of the troubles that are coming; there is, however, a safety person, the Lord Jesus Christ, that can deliver believers through the events happening now and will deliver them from the judgments to come.

The book is an excellent warning that change is coming and now is the time to prepare! I recommend it to all who have a concern about what they see happening in the world today.

A Refresher for Some; a Must-Read For Others, December 1, 2010
Many prophetic scholars (including me, though I'm more of an armchair "scholar") have predicted a catastrophic financial meltdown for decades. Today, many observers inside and outside the Church are grudgingly admitting that we're not crackpots, after all. At least not for that prediction.

In fact, an astute observer who has never cracked a Bible open--but has merely made an honest effort to inform themselves despite the disinformation from government, media and popular culture--understands that the seed of economic destruction for America was planted long ago. That seed has been nurtured, sometimes by a trickle, and sometimes by great spurts. It has been slowed somewhat a couple times, but never stopped. The harvest is almost upon us.

Dr. Jeremiah, whose radio program I've partially caught from time-to-time, has written a book that repeats the warning about this pending harvest given 2,000 years ago.

The first part of the book presents samplings of evidence, from mostly secular sources, about the bitter pill we will soon be forced to swallow. His research has mined some very enlightening quotes to support his other evidence.I appreciated his courage in calling one particular skunk a skunk: Social Security has been transformed into a compulsory, government-run Ponzi Scheme. Politicians and most talking heads are far too cowardly to ever admit this out loud. But while Dr. Jeremiah explains what a Ponzi Scheme is, citing examples, the informed reader will likely come to the same conclusion about Social Security even before he ties it together in black & white. It's also refreshing that he diverges from the ubiquitous "prosperity preachers" in honestly admitting that inflation in particular, and man-made financial calamities in general, widen the chasm between rich and poor while decimating the middle class. Another nice nugget is his analysis of Joseph's management of the Egyptian economy. Some people use this story in Genesis to imply that government-controlled, centralized (socialist) economies are Biblical, effective, or resistant to disaster. David Jeremiah politely takes exception to that notion.

From there, The Coming Economic Armageddon takes us over familiar territory (for those who have read other books about prophecy). Nobody who reads Bible prophecy for themselves is likely to agree 100% with someone else's interpretations, and that was my experience here. But Dr. Jeremiah has a well-grounded education of the matter, in general, and doesn't try to expound upon aspects of end-times prophecy he doesn't yet understand. (Yes, others have, and do, including some of the "big name" prophecy teachers.) He concentrates on the financial aspect of the end times, and the thrust of this is intended as a warning for those who still fail to appreciate the magnitude of this coming disaster.

People who have never read a single verse from the Bible have heard of "the mark of the beast," and perhaps even some contextual speculation about a cashless society, bar codes, RFID chip implants, etc. But they don't appreciate how these developments were assumed 2,000+ years ago in the Bible, and like similar assumptions in Revelation and the other prophetic books, were scoffingly dismissed until the development of satellite communications, the Internet, 3G, streaming webcasts, podcasts, etc., etc., etc.

Perhaps the best treat in store for the prophetically literate is Dr. Jeremiah's chapter on the Millennium. I don't know about others, but I've never heard teaching on this subject, and never read more than perfunctory paragraphs here and there touching on it. It's a pity this period goes unnoticed by prophecy teachers. It is important, fascinating, and painfully revealing about human nature.

TCEA wraps up with a chapter about preparation for the rider of the black horse (look that one up, haha). Dr. J doesn't give investment advice, but advises practical application of the spiritual advice Jesus evidently considered more important than any earth-bound financial strategy.

For those who already have a grasp of end-time prophecy, this is like a review, with a few fresh tidbits thrown in. For those who don't, it's a must-read.

economic prophecy, October 13, 2010
Very good and comprehensive explaination of world view of United States and world economy and its relationship to biblical prophecy.

Highly Recommended, October 4, 2010
Dr. Jeremiah's most recent book is very well researched and relevant to the economic times we are living in.

Some of the questions that are answered are:
-How did we get to this place?
-Can the American economy really recover?
-Is a New World Order on the horizon?
-Are the last days of Earth's history fast approaching?
-How can we weather this storm with hope and confidence?

A FASCINATING BOOK, October 19, 2010
What a fascinating book and the information presented is up to date. I have never read any of the author's books but after reading this book, I will definitely read some of his other books. The book was easy to read and helped to explain the economic problems that we are all facing in our lives biblically. I really enjoyed the section of the book (Page 244) when he talks about comfort zones and how devastating it can be when we fall out of those zones.This is a must read to help you prepare for the future economically.(Reviewed by Eileen Melissa's mom.)
... Read more

Editorial Review

How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free offers inspirational advice on how to enjoy life to its fullest. The key to achieving an active and satisfying retirement involves a great deal more than having adequate financial resources; it also encompasses all other aspects of life -- interesting leisure activities, creative pursuits, physical well-being, mental well-being, and solid social support.

World-class author and innovator Ernie J. Zelinski guides you to:

• Gain courage to take early retirement; in fact, the earlier the better.
• Put money in proper perspective so that you don't need a million dollars to retire.
• Generate purpose in your retirement life with meaningful creative pursuits.
• Follow your dreams instead of someone else's.
• Take charge of your mental, physical, and spiritual health.
• Better envision you retirement goals -- including where you want to live.
• Above all, make you retirement years the best time of your life.

What sets this retirement book apart from all the others is its holistic approach to the fears, hopes, and dreams that people have about retirement. This international bestseller (over 110,000 copies sold in its first edition) goes way beyond the numbers that is often the main focus of retirement planning in most retirement books.

There are many ingredients of a happy retirement and several retirement planning tools that help retirees plan for their retirement in new and more meaningful ways. One of the most powerful tools is The Get-a-Life Tree that you won't find in any other retirement books.

In short, the retirement wisdom in this book will prove to be much more important than how much money you have saved. How to Retire Happy Wild, and Free helps readers create an active, satisfying, and happy retirement in a way such that they don't need a million dollars to retire. ... Read more

Reviews

Zelinski Again
Who Wouldn't Want To Be Coached By A Guy Named Ernie Zelinski? That's the title of an article I wrote about Zelinski's other books. I love Zelinski. This time his book, How to Retire Happy, Wild and Free is about living, although it's disguised as a book on retirement. It is his best.

I recommend the book for anyone under 27 years old because they are young enough to embrace the ideals of this book and shift their lives accordingly. They can choose to live the life their heart calls them too instead of the life the MBA drives them, too. After 27 years of age people get buried in delusions about the supposed necessities of life.

I also recommend the book for people over 50. These people are now wise enough to know better and can embrace the attitudes of Zelinski's retirement long before they stop working for money. His definition of retirement is all about following your heart and is not based much on working for a living or not. Retirement is a state of mind, and you can apply many of the ideas in the book today to make your life happy, wild, and free.

Zelinski is inspiring. Zelinski knows we are all creative; I agree. I am constantly urging my patients to have some creative pursuit in their lives. Here is what he says from the book:

Once you retire, you too can reclaim your creative spirit and find an artistic pursuit that will ignite your inner fire. Your artistic pursuit -- whether it's painting pictures, writing poetry, or making pottery -- will rekindle a part of you that has been suppressed for years by the structure of a job and the routine of daily life. Not only can it make you feel more alive, an artistic pursuit can constitute the primary reason for your being.

Ninety-five percent of books on retirement are about how to plan financially for the event, and they ignore the spirit of the matter. Zelinski goes for the heart as he always does. He shows oodles of evidence demonstrating money has little to do with satisfaction in retirement. It is about finding meaning in your life. It's about living happy, wild, and free. Isn't that something that would be useful at any age? It's what I want for you and for me. That and being able to wear aloha shirts or the equivalent whenever you want. Cha!

What he is selling you should be buying
I was looking for just this kind of book. Most retirement books are talking about money,and selling you something, this book talks about your life. I am a nervous Nellie when it comes to change or decisions. I research till I know the topic as well as I can and then make my decision.

I saw myself in so many discriptions in the book. I was a workaholic. I now know better and I am trying to change my thinking about work and leisure. I have taken more time off this year than last year to date and plan a lot more days off. I thought my world would fall apart if I did this. It hasn't fallen apart-matter of fact work has gone along just fine without me! This is something of a shock. All those extra hours were a waste of time, my time! I still have a lot of work to do on learning to find my life and live it "Wild and Free", but I am making some progress.

This book made me think about retirement and life in a whole new way. The humor, quotes and exercises helped me understand my possibilities better. I am retiring next summer and moving on to the rest of my life and looking forward to it. Thank you Mr.Zelinski!

Zelinski: The Supreme Guru of Retirement Authors?
This book is quite different than the author's other one that I like so much, "The Joy of Not Working." The format is quite different. In my opinion, the organizational structure is not as good. But in the end, there is a wealth of good, solid, useful, insightful information contained inside, and that would be the point of reading it in the first place.

In short, "Happy, Wild and Free" is another winner by Zelinski for retiree readers, and it can serve as a great "only" retirement book for those who are looking for that. I can't imagine anyone feeling they don't get their money's worth from reading the book.

Just a read of the preface may be worth the price of admission. Here we find a good overview of the subject of retirement, with some first-class comments to boot: "Retirement is the perfect time to become the person you would like to be and do the things you have always wanted to do." "Retirement can be both exciting and demanding, bringing new challenges, new experiences, and new uncertainties." "...retirement is the last opportunity for individuals to reinvent themselves, let go of the past, and find peace and happiness within." "Despite the bad press that retirement sometimes gets, there has never been a better time to be retired in Western nations." And the one I like the best: "The most fortunate of retirees are those who through good planning, experimentation, and risk-taking succeed in making retirement the best time of their lives."

I just don't think the elements of this retirement insight and advice gets any better any place else. I truly believe that Zelinski is the reigning guru on retirement, and I have since I first found and read, "The Art of Retirement." If Zelinski didn't exist, I think we would have to have invent him. But he's saved us the trouble with his combination of fantastic books on retirement.

The major criticism of the book is that, for me, the flow of chapters and even the flow of sections within the chapters does not work. The collection of chapter sections, I think, could probably be randomly placed with the same eventual result. It's not like one section logically follows the other, nor positively belongs in one chapter rather than another.

And, as I look back through my notes in the book, I find words I've written such as "sophomoric," "irrelevant," "repetitive," "dumb," and "weak." I simply do not find all sections of the book to be at the level I want them to be. But that's it. That's all of my criticisms. To me the reader is free, after reading the preface, to read through the rest of the book, remembering quotes and advice and insight along the way, finding sections that he or she finds valuable and to be favorites, ignoring those found not to be worth the read.

The flaws that I see should not prevent most from finding the bulk of the book to be well worth the effort. I highly recommend this book as a gift to oneself and/or for others. I don't think it gets any better than Zelinski when you look for books on the subject of life after work.

Loved this book on retirement
Ernie has another winner on his hands. The book covers all the basics of planning for the retirement life and making it as rich as you can. It is not about saving money or financial planning. It's way more important than that. It makes the point quite well that money is secondary to living a good life. And a good life can be lived on little or a lot. His style is easy to read. It is obvious that he believes that retirement, in whatever form it takes, is a wonderful period of your life. A time when you can pursue dreams you couldn't when you worked 60 hours a week or had small children at home. A time to find your true purpose in life and fulfill it. Fortunately this is not a philosophical or feel good book; it offers practical examples, stories and exercises to help you prepare for retirement. This could be the only retirement book you'll need. I loved this book and use it in my coaching and training sessions with potential retirees.

Retirement is a state of mind rather than a time of life!
As a Life Transition Coach who specializes in helping people prepare for and adjust to 'retirement' I am always on the look out for good materials to refer them to. Zelinski's "How to Retire" has become the staple that my clients are referred to again and again.

You can tell this guy really knows how to live life. He has become a huge invitation for people to wake up and smell the burning rubber of their feet dragging on life's treadmill! Even for that small portion of the working public who actually enjoy their jobs, he presents some compelling arguments as to why 'retirement' is an appealing option to work.

I'm someone who doesn't plan on a traditional retirement, yet there were times as I read Zelinski's thoughts and ideas about what's possible in retirement that it got me thinking that I may want to revise my plans at some point in the future.

The distinction between "feel good" and "values based" happiness that Zelinski makes on p. 96 really caught my attention and I've already begun weaving the importance of this distinction into the coaching conversations I have with clients. In short, it highlights how the buzz that we get from spending money and 'accomplishing' things diminishes over time so that we have to spend more or do more in order to get the same release from it. One of those laws of diminishing return things. Compare that to the long term satisfaction and gratification we get from engaging things that hold meaning for us and you discover a kind of happiness that actually grows over time rather than diminishing over time. Very, very important for those caught in the web of illusion that golfing/fishing/shopping/traveling are going to sustain them when they retire.

Zelinski encourages us all to consider retirement earlier rather than later and to begin to pay attention to the quality of our life's experience rather than single mindedly focusing on achieving more material success. He rightfully points out that many of us won't make it to some magical retirement date we anticipate in the future. And he is clear in helping us to notice that money alone is not going to buy us a satisfying, gratifying retirement experience.

The only way that I think this book could be improved is with a bit more focus on the conversation about discovering the identity each of us has that typically lies buried beneath mountains of cultural conditioning. In my experience, folks who haven't ever really spent much time wondering "who am I under all these rules, anyway?" need a fair bit of support and encouragement to keep digging until they discover themselves. That being said, the many exercises and activities Zelinski's suggests are fine starting points for that exploration.

I think that every workaholic in North America should be locked in a room with this book for as long as it takes for them to read it through and discover the big, exciting world that they are missing! And I don't know many people who couldn't benefit from absorbing a few of Zelinski's thoughts on the whole retirement subject.

The best!
I purchased and borrowed several retirement guides in the months just prior to retiring. As I read the other books, I kept returning to How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free for the author's good, down to earth suggestions. Most of the other books focus on finances and second careers after retirement. While both of these subjects are important issues, they are not the only concerns you have as you prepare for that big step into the future. How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free covers it all. Those worries you may have about what to do after retiring -- this book has lots of great, affordable suggestions for you. Taking care of yourself, continued learning and travel are all addressed. You will not be a bored retiree. Also enjoyable are the readers' letters to the author that are interspersed throughout the book. Ernie Zelinski's upbeat book is highly recommended as you prepare for that next important chapter in your life. With this book in hand, you will be ready to enjoy your retirement years to their fullest!

Happy, Wild, and Free: THAT'S the Important Part!
If you want a nuts and bolts FINANCIAL guide to retirement, you won't find it here.

But if you want a so-much-more-than-nuts-and-bolts guide to designing a retirment that makes you happy, content, and yes, even wild and free, then Zelinski's down to earth advice will uplift and inspire you to retire as soon as possible!

Easy reading with a positive message. Recommended!

Lots of great ideas!
I really enjoyed this book. Some of the best things are the "Get A Life Tree" and 7 pages of possible activities for it.

A few quotes:

"The probability of having a happy and successful retirement is inversely proportional to the amount of TV one watches."

"You must pursue what you truly want out of retirement, and not what others want you to pursue or what other retirees are pursuing."

"Virtually everyone will agree at some level that money doesn't buy happiness, but deep down they haven't accepted it. Regardless of how old you are, you will show wisdom well beyond your age when you truly accept that money can't buy contentment and peace of mind."

"Riches are to be used and not to be hoarded. After all, what the ultimate purpose of money, but to spend it?

Sadly, wealthy people can actually be worse off than poor people. Due to their poverty consciousness, a disease of sorts, some of the rich continue to live as if they were poor."

Pages 186-7 has a good list of things to look for in a retirement location.

Page 195 has great self evaluation questions to answer.

I've read a lot of retirement books and this one had new angles for me and I recommend it.

The Best Book Available on the Non-financial Aspects of Retirement
I first noticed that "How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free" appeared in Amazon.com's "Customers who bought this item also bought" list for virtually any other significant book on retirement. So I bought Zelinski's book. I was not disappointed.

Two reviewers state that this book is the same as Zelinski's international bestseller "The Joy of Not Working". This is not true. Although the two books have some similarities, "How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free" is strictly for the retired or soon-to-be retired, whereas "The Joy of Not Working" is directed -- not only at the retired and the unemployed -- but also at working people who want a great work/life balance.

If I were a personal coach who gives advice to the newly retired, I would recommend "How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free" to my clients as the best non-financial retirement book. If I was a corporate human resource manager, I would be purchasing this book in quantity to give to all of my company's retiring employees.

In short, "How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free" is the best book I have read on the personal aspects of retirement. The chapters are devoted to the consideration of activities that enhance body, mind, and spirit. Zelinski quotes from many sources, but his attitude is reflected in this excerpt from his own writing:

"You will have attained true freedom in this world when you can get up in the morning when you want to get up; go to sleep when you want to go to sleep; and in the interval, work and play at the things you want to work and play at -- all at your own pace. The great news is that retirement allows you the opportunity to attain this freedom."
... Read more

Editorial Review

An actionable guide for quickly improving one's wealth, personal development, and happiness

Successful people don't sit around waiting for everything to be "100%" right or to be "absolutely sure" they will succeed. They don't need absolute assurance, because they realize life doesn't provide any. To get what they want out of life, they set specific goals and put together a formal plan to achieve those goals, one step at a time. Successful people know that the cost of failure is modest compared to that of inaction. Failure means they are smarter the next time. Inaction means there is no next time-there's only a lifetime of regret. In The Pledge: Your Master Plan for an Abundant Life, author Michael Masterson reveals how to become successful-and not just financially, but in every area of life. The book

• Offers simple tips to making immediate changes and to establishing long-term goals
• Details strategies on becoming more productive at the office and defeating depression
• Explains why simplifying goals into four major ones makes them much easier to achieve

The Pledge teaches readers how to start and finish projects they have been dreaming about for years, boost confidence, strengthen skills, build wealth, and enjoy life. ... Read more

Reviews

Abundant life is now yours for the taking...
Michael Masterson has been a long-time favorite. I've enjoyed his newsletter and other books and would recommend them too, but this book is a bit different. It is more of his life and life ideals. An abundant life if more than wealth...and more than just enjoying life more. He helps the reader to figure out what they were meant to do so they can be congruent and therefore have a deeper inner sense of satisfaction.

In "The Pledge," Masterson takes the strategies that he has used and put them forth as a system to follow...almost like a recipe. He also provides tools that can be used to "discover" yourself. It is a way of engaging your mind and heart as you create a better and more fulfilling plan for your life.

I felt "The Pledge" was inspirational as well as motivational. It reminded me that you do have to work and add value to the world around you, but that when you work hard in the right way, the level of success is higher and it comes to you naturally. Your quality of life is much more to your satisfaction all the time, because people were meant to help other people.

I would highly recommend getting this book along with another that I read early this year and has meant a lot to me. It seems that there are a lot of similarities between what Masterson writes here and the concept of Serendipity as described by Madeleine Kay. The book I'm referring to is Serendipitously Rich: How to Get Delightfully, Delectably, Deliciously Rich (or Anything Else You Want) in 7 Ridiculously Easy Steps. It too moves you positively on a path of change in your life and it also gives you practical steps that teach you how to make decisions based on serendipity.

Masterson's Strategies for a Successful and Abundant Life
I have enjoyed Michael Masterson's writing in the "Early to Rise" e-newsletter for a few years now, and I've also enjoyed a couple of his earlier books, including "Seven Years to Seven Figures." So, when I learned a new book he'd written was coming out that focused on his strategies and systems for creating a master plan to live an abundant life, I immediately ordered it from my local bookstore and moved it into my immediate reading list. I was that interested in what Masterson had to say on the topic, and having just finished reading the book this morning, I was not disappointed in the least.

"The Pledge: Your Master Plan For An Abundant Life" by Michael Masterson is and enjoyable, motivating, and informative book that is meant to be used, not just read. Masterson makes a point in one of his chapters, and near the end in the conclusion that information in not the key to success and happiness, but the acting on information is what counts. He essentially shares the strategies he's used to become very successful in most people's definition of success. Not just financially, but in the quality of life lived. (Something he stresses often.) However, he is also one to point out that it does not come easy by just thinking positive or by working only four hours a week. To become financially successful, one must work. And Masterson shares that one must often work hard. But when the hard work pays off, it can often open up areas of quality recreation that success brings.

In the Introduction, there is a short test to help you look at your life and determine how good it really is. If nothing else, this gets you thinking about what your life is like, and if you want to make positive changes, it is good to look at where you are beginning. He also discusses some obstacles to achievement that many face. Next come the eight chapters, which are called "Parts One - Eight."

Part One focuses on your Master Plan and what it takes to change your life. Essentially this part tells you why you need to plan and motivates you to get started doing it. Part Two is about goal setting, and Masterson shares how he does it and why he recommends you do it too. Part Three focuses on living day by day abundantly. Masterson's key? Become an early riser. He explains why and provides some suggestions on how to get up early if you aren't already. I also enjoyed the look into his typical day. It was sort of like Donald Trump did in a couple of his books. This chapter also had suggestions on how to be on top of everything. Definitely some good advice.

Part Four was titled "Creating A Richer, More Enjoyable Life." I liked this chapter and the examples of Golden, Vaporous and Acidic Choices. Reading this chapter should get people looking at the choices they make and what they get from those choices. He also provides some strategies for living a simpler and fuller life that may resonate with many people in this complex world we now live in. Additionally, there are other suggestions for living that if implemented would help you enjoy life better.

Part Five deals with the push you need to succeed, or as Masterson puts it, giving yourself a kick in the pants. The Junkies Secret is not a way I've looked at this topic before, but it made good sense and I think the message here can help people become more motivated to go for their dreams. This chapter also looks at positive thinking, dealing with fear, and taking the big leap. Part Six discusses the skills of the most successful and how you can learn and implement them into your own life. I read a ton, but I still picked up a tip or two that I plan on using to read even more and get more from what I read.

In Part Seven, Masterson shares his ways to defeat obstacles that get in the way of success. Like the other chapters, there are some good strategies here. Topics include e-mail problems, being in a rut, and nine steps to defeating depression. Part Eight focuses on building wealth, and Masterson shares different ways people can accumulate wealth and the ways he's done it. This is not a how to, but rather a look at directions you can look at, and then it will be up to you to pick one and learn how to implement that course to make money.

Masterson then sums up the book with a conclusion that lets you know what you've just learned, but also encourages you to become a better person, and above all, take action now. His final words, "The time to act is now. Seize it!"

I enjoy books in the business and self-help categories. They motivate me to continue to drive forward and if I implement one or two strategies from a book that help me advance in an area of my life, it was well worth the time to read and study. This book is one of the most enjoyable and useful books in this area that I've read in a long time. I have already marked the sections I want to look at again as I try some of Masterson's suggestions in my own planing. I think anyone who reads this book and actually acts on the information provided will undoubtedly advance on their journey toward living an enriched and abundant life.

Reviewed by Alain Burrese, J.D., author of Hard-Won Wisdom From the School of Hard Knocks and the upcoming Tough Guy Wisdom series and the dvds: Hapkido Hoshinsul, Streetfighting Essentials, Hapkido Cane, the Lock On Joint Locking Essentials series and articles including a regular column on negotiation for The Montana Lawyer.

Inspiring
I started reading it and have been using some of the suggestions to move my life forward. I find that they are easy to follow. The only thing that we have to do is consistency with what we are determined to do. It is easy to be side-tracked. I know it... It's habit that we need to change.... I will continue reading it once, twice, etc... Start slowly and firmly....

Mr Masterson is "Da Boss"
I am a Doctor in the UK and I am trying to change my career! I have chosen information marketing as my subject, and as a doctor I feel that this is a reasonable choice. Having studied Medicine, I know that there are two types of "Experts" - the armchair variety who are virtual vicarious Experts who document what others do; The REAL Expert, who has DONE it and has the Chops and the Bank Balance to prove that he has done it. Mr Masterson is in the second group.

There is also a second issue to consider. Is this Expert talking about what his Expertise is? Or is he Blowing off on an entirely different topic? Mr Masterson has written two great books on his Expertise (IMHO). One was "Ready, Fire, Aim" that tells you about the Outer Game - the mechanics of building a Great Business. This present book "The Pledge" concentrates on the Inner Game - What you need to do to your mind to get it going. I think that these two books are two sides of a single coin, and if you want to mint a Big Fat Profitable Coin, the price you pay for these two books is Truly and merely a pittance.

So, if you want to know the "Secrets" of a person that I consider one of the Greatest Information Marketers EVER, Get these books. They are worth their weight in Gold!

Truly the best book I've ever read.
I've personally met Michael Masterson and he truly understands what it takes to build a life that you can be proud of. I read it over first and then now going back and answering the questions that he asked you to really think of where you are at right at that moment and what you need to do step by step so that you can make your own Master Plan. This book needs to be bought NOW..

... Read more

Editorial Review

The bestselling The Millionaire Next Door identifies seven common traits that show up again and again among those who have accumulated wealth. Most of the truly wealthy in this country don't live in Beverly Hills or on Park Avenue-they live next door. This new edition, the first since 1998, includes a new foreword for the twenty-first century by Dr. Thomas J. Stanley. ... Read more

Reviews

Sensational!
The people givin this book one stars and whining miss the point. You can have a lifestyle while building for the future. Nowhere does it say you have to live like a hermit. Frugality is the key. I'll bet that all of the one stars are also livig paycheck to paycheck and broke (but having a great time) I also recommend Buffetology and More Wealth without Risk.

This is how the rich become rich
Creating wealth is sort of like dieting.Everybody wants the end result but the discipline to achieve that result is usually lacking.Oh, if only there were a magic pill that you could take to lose weight or to create wealth without changing your habits. We would all be rich.FRUGALITY...FRUGALITY...FRUGALITY. It takes discipline.Contrary to certain opinions i.e. revews posted here, you don't need "a wad" to do this.However, by following these concepts, you will soon have a wad.There is no level of income that you can't outspend and yet most of us feel that we have an unlimited supply of cash.You would think that considering the ever increasing number of bankruptcies and mortgage foreclosures not to mention company downsizings that people would have learned by now. Peer pressure...keeping up with the Jone's drives many people to live beyond their means. Remember this: when your outgo exceeds your income, your upkeep will become your downfall.DELAY GRATIFICATION. Pay yourself first. Invest and then buy toys with the profits.Another good book to read is Rich Dad Poor Dad and Cash Flow Quadrant. Robert . Kiyosaki has a different strategy than Stanley and Danko in certain areas but is in agreement in other areas. The authors work compliments each other and I highly recommend these books to all would be financial achievers.Another book that is popular right now and says some of the same things is The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach.Read and grow rich.

A Book Whose Time Has Come--wisdom long OVERDUE!
I used to be one of those people who spent all or at least most of my money and thought I was doing okay with the little savings I had in the bank earning 2% (wow).I always bought brand new cars, new clothes, went on vacations 6-8 times per year and partied. I had a great time! One day my company shut down and I was forced to live on 50% OF MY INCOME. My savings dwindled to nothing and I had a hard time making car and credit card payments. I came to the realization that I was "renting" my "lifestyle" all of which was encumbered with debts and false belief in "job security" A friend loaned me a copy of "The Millionaire Next Door" and I had to painfully admit that I had been a fool. I met a really nice old couple in their '70's who never made much over minimum wage in salary, but were debt free and had 100's of thousands to retire on and were living better than the flamboyant fools like me who spent through their incomes. This book turned me around. I would also recommend "9 Steps to Financial Freedom" and 'More Wealth without Risk" to add to your library, or at least borrow from a library. I am now living better, earning 20-25% in mutuals, contribute to my new companies 401 (k), have a IRA and am DEBT FREE with the exception of my mortgage which will be paid off in five years (or less).

A startling revelation on what it takes to create wealth.
I can certaintly understand the controversy regarding this book. When I first heard of this book, I thought it was some ripoff book and approached this book with ambivalence. So I checked it out from my local library first and was so impressed that not only did I go out and buy my own copy, but also give it as an accessory gift for special occasions and recommend it to everyone I know.

I also recommend "The Millionaire Mind" which is different from this book. That volume allows you to peek inside the minds of millionaires; shows you how the millionaires think.

One caveat of these books is that they are dependent on income. You won't find anything in here on creating cash flow. For that I recommend "Rich Dad Poor Dad" whose ideas on staying debt free are somewhat similiar to what is recommended in Millionaire Next Door, but also provides ideas for creating wealth through additional cash flow. It is a book that should be written in addition, not in place of The Millionaire Next Door.

Also recommend More Wealth Without Risk and Financial Self-Defense which offer actual strategies on creating wealth, reducing expenses and investing.

Excellent-this book is must reading for everyone!
Every now and thena very, very special book comes along with a "aha" and this is such a book. Many people are spending their way through high incomes---keeping up with the "JONE'S" high profile lifestyle's encumbered with high debt and zero savings. I worked for a millonaire one time who said"Money buys clothes, clothes don't buy anything!" He advised us to buy our "toys" clothes, cars, vacations etc. off profits of profits and never spend principal! This mans nt worth was well in excess of $350,000,000. I would also recommend three other books; "RICHEST MAN IN BABLYON" by George Clawson, "WEALTH WITHOUT RISK" and "FINANCIAL SELF-DEFENSE" by Charles Givens. Remember, it's not what you make, it's what's left over that counts. If you spend all of your money on your lifestyle, guess what? You'll always have to! Good reading, excellent book.

Very worthwhile read
The Millionaire Next Door is without doubt one of the best financial books ever published. It tells you exactly how millionaires became millionaires.

Unfortunetly, achieving wealth requires discipline. Too many people would rather live for today and forget about tomorrow. Too many people think that success is a college degree and keeping up with the Jones's. The higher their income, the higher their lifestyle.

Interesting that small business owners were so successful and that the most successful were normally mundane businesses. I read that the #1 producer of millionaires in small business was via dry cleaning. And you thought it was technology!

The Millionaire Next Door is a powerful book that can positively change your life. Some others include Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Automatic Millionaire and More Wealth Without Risk.

Sensational!
The people giving this book one stars and whining miss the point. You can have a lifestyle while building for the future. Nowhere does it say you have to live like a hermit. Frugality is the key. I'll bet that all of the one stars are also living paycheck to paycheck and broke (but having a great time) Am I right??? I also recommend Buffetology and More Wealth without Risk. All three are excellent books and must reading for anyone seeking financial succe$$!

Very interesting analysis
I found it interesting that according to this great thesis by Stanley and Danko, a full 5% of all the Millionaires created their wealth in sales.

The study futher states that those millionaires made their money in sales, became very good at selling, earned an excellent living and saved and invested a substantial part of their income. As a result, became millionaires.

The last part is where most people go wrong. They spend all of their income; they spend first and never set up an investment plan.

Read and apply the principles in The Millionaire Next Door. Consider making selling your profession. Make a committment to become excellent and save/invest a substantial portion of your income.

There is no level of income that you can't outspend.

A FANTASTIC BOOK!
I look at this book as a modern version of the timeless classic "The Richest Man in Bablyon" Frugality and Delayed Gratification are difficult disciplines which is probably why so few people, irregardless of their incomes, have any real wealth! For anyone interested in actual action techniques, I highly recommend 'Wealth without Risk" and "Financial Self Defense" by Charles Givens. also "7 Strategies for Wealth and Happiness" by E. James Rohn. ... Read more

Editorial Review

From the authors who predicted with unmatched precision the domino impacts of the real estate, stock market, and other bubbles that led to 2008's market meltdown comes the definitive look at what is still to come and what investors can do to protect themselves

Just as many are wrongly forecasting a full recovery ahead, Aftershock, now updated and revised, warns of a very different economic future. Home prices and stocks will continue to fall, inflation and unemployment will rise, and the current recession will not automatically cycle back to recovery. Unlike most books, Aftershock goes beyond the outdated notion of "market cycles" to help readers clearly recognize and quickly respond to the rapidly evolving economy. Instead of going back to how things were before, we are moving forward through uncharted territory, with new challenges and opportunities few people anticipate. The book shows you how to:

• Protect assets before and during the second wave of the financial meltdown
• Make wise investment decisions regarding stocks, bonds, real estate, and more
• Know which jobs, careers, and businesses will fare the best
• Profit from the collapsing bubbles
• Other titles by Wiedemer, Wiedemer, and Spitzer: America's Bubble Economy

Aftershock is easy-to-read, entertaining, and practical book guides readers to seek safety and profits in these evolving economic conditions. ... Read more

Reviews

"Don't Worry, Not a Single Penny of your Tax Dollars Will Fund the Bailouts."
"That's right. The bank and corporate bailout money is not coming from our taxes. Instead we're just borrowing it from foreign investors. We're also printing some of it...Of course, we will never, ever have to pay it all back, because even if we tried (and we won't), we never could." That is why the U.S. Government will eventually be unable to borrow money and the nation will have to start living within it's means. That will be the beginning of the brave new world of life in America. This book is how we are speeding toward this "Bubblequake" and its "Aftershock." Although somewhat depressing (like all bad news is), this book also tells people what they can do to survive this worldwide depression and how to actually be able to make money during the painful readjustment of the world's economies. While this is a scary book because of what is happening all around us, it is also a hopeful book. The nation will survive after the country stops ignoring the basic laws of economics. The three authors are optimistic (maybe overly so) that the American people will be able to make the adjustments needed to achieve economic survival without having to become survivalists who have to grow their own food and defend their homes from roving mobs with guns. They feel that even dictators will be unable rise from the chaos because Americans will be changing its government officials as soon as it's obvious their policies don't work. There will be frequent changes in elected officials.
The nation will survive because basically the country is wealthy and will still be so after the economic bubbles have all popped and forced everyone and their government to live within their means.
These authors "are not bulls or bears or gold bugs, stock boosters or detractors, currency pushers, or doom-and-gloom crusaders," and "have no particular political ideology to endorse, and no dogmatic future to promote."
The goal of this book is "to tell you more details about the next round of bubbles to fall while there's still time to protect your assets and position yourself to survive and thrive in this dangerous, yet potentially highly profitable new environment...Although much of what we predicted in our first book that hasn't happened yet because most of the impact of the multi-bubble collapse is still to come. This is good news because it means you still have time to get prepared."
It's impossible to do justice to this book's message in a short review. The review copy I worked from is now practically destroyed by so many dog-eared pages and underline and highlighted passages. The three authors share a theory of the economy having being boosted by six economic co-linked bubbles. They are: The real estate bubble, the stock market bubble, the private debt bubble, the discretionary spending bubble, the dollar bubble and the government debt bubble. Four of those bubbles have already burst or are still in the process of collapsing. With the collapse of each bubble it puts more pressure on the remaining bubbles, and the two most important bubbles are in dire danger. The dollar bubble and government debt bubble collapses will change the face of America and the world. America will be bankrupt.
In their first book, "America's Bubble Economy" the authors accurately predicted the economic chaos of 2008 and 2009. This book picks up developments in 2010 and the following years and predicts the next economic bubbles that will pop. In the coming much worst economy, the book shows readers the best ways to protect, their jobs, businesses and assets. It explains how the housing crisis isn't "a sub prime mortgage problem whose contagion spread to other mortgages; it is a `housing price collapse.'" The number of home owners with mortgages that are underwater has risen from 14.3% in Q3 2008 to 33% in Q2 of 2009." Since 70% of the American Economy is based on consumer spending, the bubbles that have already popped or are still in the process of deflating won't be able to re-inflate. When the dollar loses it's value and the government can no longer pay its loans, and therefore won't be able to get any credit. America's golden age will be over.
Inflation, resorted to by the desperate government, will rack the nation bankrupting most businesses. "40 to 60%" unemployment may become the norm. There will be so many people seeking jobs that wages will tank. Everyone will be on Medicaid, not Medicare, and all the unemployed will be on welfare. The rich will have left the USA or be broke and all the government's taxes will come from the working people--the middle class. Since as much income as possible will be hidden, there will be national sales taxes and Value Added Taxes on every product or service. Family members will return home to live together with their extended families in order to control housing expenses.
After I finished this book I went home and made some of the changes suggested by this book. They include such obvious things as selling real estate if a buyer can be found and getting rid of variable rate mortgages if you can't sell the real estate. Variable rate mortgages are absolute poison. Selling off stocks is another suggestion. It doesn't have to be done all at once, it can be done over the next couple of years, but most stocks should be sold because the dollar bubble collapse will destroy stock market values. Collectables and art will be non-liquid and will drastically drop in value (90%) for the long term. Gold, and silver to a lesser extent, will retain its position as a hedge against inflation as well as a protection against the dollar bubble collapse. The authors also list the types of jobs that will be in demand during the coming perilous times. As one might expect some job categories will boom while the unnecessary ones will disappear. For example construction workers may want to start looking for jobs that repair existing structures rather than build new buildings. You'll have to read this book to get the answers to many of the questions that reading this volume will provoke.
The thing this reviewer liked the best about this book was the carefully explained logic of it's predictions. It provides a much better overview of the current economy. The readers will discover lots of new information that they've probably never heard or read before, but that the reader's gut instinct and personal experience will tell him or her is obviously true. While the authors may be wrong on some of their predictions, most of them will probably prove all too accurate. At the end of each chapter the authors list a website where more current information on that chapter's point can be gleaned before the next volume of this continuing series is published. This is a page turner, but it will be slow reading from the standpoint of having to constantly stop and make notes in the margin or pause to see how a particular point directly effects the reader's own situation. Reading this book will make you aware of economics like you've never previously been aware. Depending on your age, you may well recall your parents or grandparents advice that they'd learned during the Great Depression of 1929. The coming bubble bursts are going to be a more society-changing depression than the one 1929, although "few will suffer like they did in the Great Depression." The safety net will allow everyone to survive at a low standard of living. While the book didn't make this comparison, while reading it, I could easily visualize the United States as a colder, slightly wealthier version of Cuba. As I read it I also saw some visions of the movie "Dr. Zhivago" pop into my mind.

In its field: Outstanding; Outside: Not so good
Although I don't particularly like the way this book is written and disagree with most of the irrelevant asides offered in support of the analyses: I find this to be the most complete and comprehensive analysis of America's ongoing economic problems that I have thus far encountered. In addition: the reasoned deductions which the authors draw from their analyses are far ranging and logical; and, for the most part, the conclusions which they reach are well justified and difficult to dispute. So, if you are looking for a book that will give you some valuable insight into what is happening to the U.S. economy today, and why; which explains how the ultimate collapse of that economy and the U.S. dollar will take place; and which forecasts what the United States and the world at large will be like following that calamity, then this is certainly a book which you should read.

I won't attempt to outline the book since other reviewers have probably done that already; and besides that might spoil the fun for you, the reader. But I would like to point out some of the seemingly gratuitous "asides" [not pertaining directly to the analyses] with which I disagree.

On page 170, the authors praise Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) for freeing the U.S. from the requirement to back its currency with gold, instead backing in by "the full faith and credit of the United States government." In my view, no praise is warranted, since FDR's actions helped set the U.S. on the path toward to its own economic destruction. Also on page 170, the authors state that in 1973 the United States went off the International Gold Standard [stopped redeeming foreign-held U.S. dollars for gold in accordance with the Bretton Woods Agreement signed in 1944] because that was the only way we could continue to buy foreign goods. In reality, the U.S. was forced to stop redeeming foreign-held dollars for gold because by 1973 we had inflated our currency to such an extent that France and Great Britain began to question the safety of our currency and there was a run on our gold reserves. On page 188, the authors once again praise FDR for crossing over political boundaries to push through his New Deal policies. It is fairly common knowledge nowadays, however, that FDR's policies helped propel what is thought to have been a probable recession into a thirteen year depression ended only by America's entry into World War II. On page 195, the authors use the example of an independent physicist who, following the Challenger Accident in 1986, performed a simple experiment to show NASA why the accident occurred. In reality, Thiokol engineers pleaded with NASA not to launch STS-51L because the O-rings were colder than 53 degrees Fahrenheit. The decision to launch was made for political reasons not out of ignorance. On page 196, the authors praise the book "Silent Spring." That book, of course, misrepresented the science concerning DDT leading to its being banned and resulting in several million deaths worldwide due to malaria and other diseases. On page 200-201, the authors contend that gold is not a good store of value since its price fluctuates. In reality, the price of gold doesn't fluctuate. The price of various nation's currencies fluctuate relative to gold. To illustrate: The oil cartel members (OPEC) routinely adjust the price of oil, in terms of U.S. dollars, such that their return remains fairly constant in terms of gold. (Are they smarter than us, or what?) And, last but not least, on page 217, the authors praise Barack Obama for trying "to contain the growing blaze" [of uncontrolled government spending]. As we all know: Nothing could be farther from the truth.

But, one last thing: On page 187, the authors theorize that, at some far distant future date, some international assemblage will devise an international monetary system, independent of gold or any other metal, that "will be inflation-free because the system that controls the supply of IMUs [International Monetary Units] will be set up to avoid it." In all of man's history, gold is the only standard which has ever met that requirement! And human nature being what it is: How na�ve can you get?

Regardless of all this: I can't help but offer my thanks and praise to the authors of this book for their in-depth assessment of America's troubles, particularly at this unique point in America's and the world's history. One can only hope that their work and this book will help bring more Americans to their senses and encourage them to take whatever steps they can to protect themselves and their families. Bottom line: This is a truly outstanding book in the field of economics, but outside that field, as demonstrated by the above noted "asides," it leaves much to be desired.

Excellent book
I normally read 2 econ/market related books a month. Aftershock is one of the best financial books I have seen in a long time. It is easy read, full of solid facts and, predicts what is about to come- without double talk. Simply put, the authors are what you may call a "one handed" economists. They give it to you straight and put their credibility on the line. And they have the credibility to be believable. They are among the very few economists who, in 2006, in the "America's Bubble Economy", predicted the economic chaos that we are now in. They predicted the financial meltdown very precisely and told us exactly how it was going to happen! Now in the Aftershock they make their prediction for the next 3-5 years. It is not all doom and gloom. They tell you their reasons for the coming inevitable crises and show you, with very specific recommendations, how to protect yourself. They also tell you how it is going to end. This book is a Must read for anyone who is in the Market as well as those who care about their financial future. Highly recommended.

have read several books about economy and...
aftershock was excellent. I compared what this book said to end the fed, crashproof, crashproof 2.0, don't start revolution without me, and shadows of power.
All of them agree that we cannot continue to borrow from other countries to finance this massive debt that we are continually running up. All of them are saying that we will experience massive inflation and other undesirable consequences.
What I liked about aftershock was it had the bubbles explained in details. I agree that 4 popped and have been temporarily re-inflated. And they will burst making a bigger POP. The last two are the dollar and govt debt. Its happening in Greece, happened in Zimbabwe, and throughout history no fiat dollar has survived as long as the dollar which is a note. Few people know what a fiat currency is :-(
The question that remains somewhat unanswered is where to park assets for preservation and not so much for a gain. I do not see it in real estate nor stocks. I question if the plunge protection team is keeping the stocks up (& precious metals down) and this is why the fed reserve is not audited. But that is off topic.
The only chance we have of saving the dollar is a full audit of the federal reserve (end the fed by Dr. Ron Paul explains it quite well). And probably shutting the fed res down. The fed is allowing the Washington politicians from both parties to spend our children's and grandchildren's futures away. We need PAYGO now and not years from now when we are forced to live within our means.
I gave this book a 5 star rating. I would rank all of the ones I listed above at at least a 4.5 stars. I recommended this book to friends followed by crashproof 2.0 (by Peter Shiff who is running in Conn for office - I see Dodds decided to not debate him and retire instead hmmmm) and shadows of power by Perloff (to read how these economic problems were set up in 1913 by President Wilson)..
I wish more people would read and be informed of what is going on with the country and their wallets and their futures.

Another Winner
In June a friend referred me to the authors' original book -Americas Bubble Economy. After reading it I was truly amazed at how well they predicted the current crisis three to four years ago. I am an investment manager by trade and well aware of the state of the economy. I read a lot of books, newspapers, blogs, newsletters and anything else I can get my hands on. My job and my passion revolve around investments and markets. As such I feel I am overly qualified to state that their original book and now Aftershock, are two readings that are essential for those that want to understand what is happening in the economy and where we are going.

I have recommended Aftershock to a few friends and clients that want to understand today's economy. To date I have received two rave reviews. They claim it makes a lot of sense and best of all is incredibly easy to read and understand. Whether you are an investment professional or someone that hasn't taken econ 101, this is a must read.

AFTERSHOCK - Failure to read could harm your financial health!
I had the opportunity to meet Bob and Dave Wiedemer back in May 09 as a result of some business I was conducting. At that time they were hard at work on AFTERSHOCK - their second book. They gave me a copy of their original book - America's Bubble Economy. As soon as I read it, I was sold on their vision and philosophy of the markets. In fact I wished I had found the book back in March of 08. At that time, I was having a running argument with my financial advisors at Bernstein Alliance regarding the direction of the markets. I felt sure, based on all my research, that we were headed into a major correction, but did not have the clean, well documented framework around my arguments that were articulated in America's Bubble Economy.

I continued to pester the Wiedemers for an early copy of their second book AFTERSHOCK, which they graciously provided to me in August. I devoured the book over the next few days and could not find any flaws in their logic. The book is very well laid out, extremely insightful and very easy to read. While I must admit I follow no one single investment strategy, I am in the process of slowly repositioning my investments to incorporate their recommended approach for 25 to 40% of my invested assets.

For anyone who is inherently uncomfortable with their current investment options, tired of the 2 minute talking heads with their random predictions, and single brokers claiming they know which stocks to buy, AFTERSHOCK is a must read. AFTERSHOCK provides an original way to look at the current market volatility and turmoil. If after reading AFTERSHOCK, one has any doubts as to their predictions, I would strongly encourage you to read their first book America's Bubble Economy, to get a sense of just how accurately they predicted the "Great Recession" we are currently experiencing.

David and Bob Wiedemer's first book, America's Bubble Economy, published in Oct. 06, not only correctly predicted the "Great Recession" we are in before it started, but more importantly they predicted it for the right reasons in the right order. They predicted it would begin with the deflating of the sub prime loan bubble and then spread to the housing bubble, credit bubble, stock market bubble and finally consumer spending.

One point of disclosure please. I have become so convinced of their vision and philosophy that I elected to join their economic consulting company as the COO. I hope you find as much wisdom and pleasure in Aftershock as I did.
... Read more

Editorial Review

THE MULTI-MILLION COPY BESTSELLING CLASSIC

Read by millions, this timeless book holds the key to success-in the secrets of the ancients. Based on the famous "Babylonian principles," it's been hailed as the greatest of all inspirational works on the subject of thrift and financial planning.

ACHIEVE PERSONAL WEALTH...

This celebrated bestseller offers an understanding of-and a solution to-personal money problems.This is the original classic that reveals the secrets to acquiring money, keeping money, and making money earn even more money. Simply put: the original money-management favorite is back! ... Read more

Reviews

Even better the fifth time around!
I first heard about this book 17 years ago. At that time, I was in a direct sales company and had the good fortune to attend a seminar conducted by a businessman named Jim Rohn.

Mr. Rohn talked about his early mentor, a man named Earl Schoff and went on to tell us how Mr. Schoff turned him on to personal development and pointed him to the right books to read. One of the most important books, said Rohn was The Richest Man in Bablyon.

Rohn had made and lost a fortune but came back and made another fortune and gave credit to the principles in The Richest Man in Bablyon for helping him accomplish that feat.

I read The Richest Man in Bablyon and have to admit, I hated it! I thought it was stupid, like feel good stuff that has no substance. When ever friends came over, I hid the book. I felt so ridiculous.

But Mr. Rohns words of wisdom kept echeoing in my mind. So I read it over and over untill the principles were imbedded into my conscious and subconsious mind.

Soon, after the fifth reading, the the principles became habits for me. My wealth esculated at a very rapid rate. I was no longer wasting money. I was now investing the first 10% of my income, tithing 10% and investing another 10% in capital like no load mutuals, real estate, discounted mortgages, tax liens and my own business.

The Richest Man in Bablyon has 7 basic principles:

1) Start thy purse to fattening - save/invest
2) Control thy expenditures - watch out for self serving brokers
3) Make thy gold mutiply - use powerful investments
4) Guard thy treasures from loss - watch out for brokers with
their hot tips.
5) Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment - rental properties, your own home---but stay within your means.
6) Insure a future income - do work that you love to do. Become excellent at it.
7) Increase thy ability to earn - education never stops. Keep reading good books like this one, The Millionaire Next Door, Rich Dad Poor Dad and so on.

The Richest Man in Bablyon is an excellent book. Although only 145 pages, it is packed with powerful information that can be life changing. It has helped some people like Jim Rohn and others become millionaires.

George Samuel Clason was born in Louisiana, Missouri, on November 7, 1874. He attended the University of Nebraska and served in the United States Army during the Spanish-American War. Beginning a long career in publishing, he founded the Clason Map Company of Denver, Colorado and published the first road atlas of the United States and Canada. In 1926, he issued the first in a series of pamphlets on thrift and financial success, using parables set in ancient Bablyon to make each of his points.

These were distributed in large quantities by banks and insurance companies and became familiar to millions, the most famous being "The Richest Man in Bablyon," the parable which has impacted the lives of millions of people. These "Babylonian Parables" have become a modern inspiritional classic.

The Richest Man in Babylon is must reading for anyone who wants to achieve maximum financial success. Highly recommended.

A ONE OF A KIND CLASSIC
I first read "Richest Man in Bablyon bac in 1975. At first I was taken back by it's compact size and story book style. This book should be read by everyone from grade school to the college level students, employees, executives and the self employed. In todays's society, where people spend most if not all of what they make, this book is mre valuable than ever. Other books I would recommend are; "The Millionaire next Door" by Dr. Stanley et all, "More Wealth without Risk" and "Financial Self-Defense" by Charles Givens. Great book. A must read for anyone seeking financial independence,

POWERFUL, VERY POWERFUL BOOK!
I am continually amazed at how a book so small can contain so much content and be so powerful. This book should be mandatory reading beginning at the grade school level through college and should be given as a gift right along with a diploma.

I took the advice of acde1034@yahoo.com who recommended 'The Millionaire next Door" and "More Weath without Risk" and bought and have read both. Both of these books are in the same status as "The Richest Man in Bablyon" and should also be required reading by anyone who is serious about their financial future. I am now giving "Richest Man in Bablyon" as a accessory gift to a cash gift at weddings and graduations.

Powerful and timeless
I am still amazed that such a tiny book can deliver so much powerful and timeless information. The Richest Man in Bablyon contains the secrets of the ages and is a must read book for anyone who wants financial success.

It should be read and reread, over and over.

An Old Book with a Fair Amount of Wisdom
I often give this book out as a gift whenever a person younger than me asks for my advice on money. I always present this book to them saying "if you read it and do as it says, it will work magic." It really contains excellent, time tested advice, and would make a good gift for someone in their early 20s who is on their own for the first time, and struggling.

The book is a series of parables about money written in the 1920s by George Clason. They were written as individual essays of a few thousand words, but the theme throughout them is consistent -- save 10% of your money, give 10% away, use 10% to reduce your debt load, and live on the remaining 70%.

The stories in the book are entertaining; they are reminiscent of some of the parables in the Bible, such as the Prodigal Son or the story of the Workers in the Vineyard. I think this is intentional on the part of the author; certainly readers in the 1920s had an appreciation for "old fashioned stories with a moral" that people today seem to have lost. I enjoy the book greatly, though, and any thoughtful person who reads the book should find it interesting, especially if they are trying to get their finances in order.

Still a must read for all who want to be wealthy
When I first started in sales 19 years ago, a good friend of mine advised me of the benefit of personal development books and suggested that I start to build a good library.

One of the first books he recommended to me was The Richest Man in Bablyon. His advise was that you can live off your income but you can't get wealthy off of income. You only get wealthy by investing, starting with that first 10% and with the proper management of money.

The Richest Man in Bablton may be a turnoff to the analytical types. Question: how are you analytical types doing financially?
Read and use the principles in this book. It will make all the difference in the world.

I also recommend The Millionaire Next Door, The Automatic Millionaire and More Wealth without Risk.

Les I forget, always remember that a lesson in wealth building is to give to recieve and the best time to start giving is when you feel you cannot afford to. It will come back to multiplied many times over.

Definitely a must read for everyone.
When I started in sales 15 years ago, a very good friend of mine turned me on on the mind books. This was one of three he recommended and he was very successful.The other books were Think and Grow Rich and Success through a Positive Mental Attitude. The principles in Richest Man in Bablyon are timeless. Remember, you can live off your income, but you can't get wealthy off your income. You only get wealthy by investing and Richest Man in Bablyon teaches that all important step of investing.Two other books to read in the area of personal finance are Wealth without Risk and Financial Self Defense by Charles Givens. These books will show you how to save more on what you make.

Common sense is not necessarily common knowledge
I have to chucle when people say that outstanding books like this one by George Clayson are just "good old fashioned common sense" and are complaining because of the books brevity. You missed the whole point!Common sense is not necessarily common knowledge.I used to work for a millionaire who credited the principles in this book for helpin create his fortune which was in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Save a dime out of every dollar. That is all it takes to start your fortune. But how many actually will do it?

A classic and powerful book
Don't underestimate this small book. It contains powerful information. Written in parables, Richest Man in Bablyon will teach you the philosophy of the wealthy. And how you can achieve great wealth in any economic condition.

Richest Man in Bablyon should be mandatory reading in schools. I submit that if it was, we would have a financially stronger America.

Great book. Must reading.

Not for the sophisticated...But,
How are the sophisticated doing financially? By sophisticated, I mean the affluent, high income earners who spend most of what they make...Richest Man in Bablyon is timeless like Think and Grow Rich but written in a style like the very popular Rich Dad, Poor Dad series.An easy read. Informative and entertaining.I suspect that this book hit a nerve with the 1 star reviewers. Living a little bit too high? Then read this book. ... Read more

Editorial Review

German bestseller about the best ways to protect oneself financially from the threats posed by government’s interference in the economy

After the bursting of the real estate bubble, the U.S. pushed a monetary and fiscal policy that is, at best, blatantly wrong and, at worst, carries enormous financial risk. And because Washington knows this, America’s greatest weapon–its propaganda machine–has been called into service, diverting attention away from the fact that it was and continues to be government interference in the market economy that’s lead us to where we are now, namely at the end of one financial calamity and the beginning of yet another. A plea for the market economy, The Inflation Trap: Rescue Your Assets! details the cause of our current economic crisis and argues that political mismanagement endangers finances, health and, in extreme cases, democracy itself.
•    Advocates the freedom of the individual and the capitalist economic system derived from it
•    Foreword by Martin Weiss, bestselling author of The Ultimate Depression Survival Guide, by Wiley
•    Other titles by Leuschel and Vogt: The Greenspan Dossier
Every crisis offers opportunities for those who have prepared. The Inflation Trap: Rescue Your Assets! shows how to prepare for the aftermath of years of government interference in the market economy.

Reviews

Breathe of Fresh Air, December 19, 2010
It is passed due for a German Economist's view on the current global crisis to hit America with a large scale publishing.
To anyone who wants a clear cut vision of what the future holds for the global fiat monetary system this book is a must read. The fact that this book comes from the words of men who's ancestors had to deal with extreme hardships of German Hyperinflation in the 1920's, makes it a credible source on outcomes of state controlled monetary indoctrination.(AKA 2010-The FED)
We are in the eye of the storm of America's great cloud that hangs for the future. I feel that this book does a great job of enlightening the reader on just how serious the problems (can) and (most-likely) will be.
Unbelievably well written book that is easy to understand for the new comer of economic reading, yet packed with alot of clear thought and probable visions that help the experienced come to a better understanding of how economist from around the world are perceiving the problems that we all face in retrospect to the mismanagement of America, and all fiat monetary systems around the world.

Also this is one of the most current economic preparation books out so plenty of info on QE's and all the latest of bubble building techniques the state is playing with to make Alice's hole to Wonderland that much bigger........
A must read. ... Read more

Editorial Review

In this fresh, interactive guide, respected financial expert Dave Ramsey offers a proven, comprehensive plan for getting in shape financially.� The Total Money Makeover Workbook takes you one step closer to getting out of debt and achieving financial health. Against a playful backdrop of fitness terminology, Dave gives solid, hard-hitting advice and the hope and the how-to needed to turn goals into reality. The Total Money Makeover Workbook includes:

• Useful worksheets and forms
• Readable and informative charts and graphs
• The four factors that keep people from getting in shape financially

The Total Money Makeover Workbook is an essential resource for anyone desiring total financial fitness. Dave's no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach translates into results for those who diligently follow this complete action plan. Tens of thousands of people have already transformed their financial situation with Dave's advice, rooted in God's and Grandma's common sense. With The Total Money Makeover Workbook, countless others will be on their way to financial fitness.

Reviews

Not worth the purchase if you buy the book
I bought the Total Money Makeover Workbook along w/ the hardcover book, thinking it would be more 'hands-on'. It wasn't worth the extra cost. A lot of the exercises seemed written for children - fill in the blanks w/ words you read in the passages... really silly. Plus, all the necessary worksheets are in the hardcover book already, so the workbook didn't seem to give me anything new. Don't waste your money on the workbook.

Debt Free for life Thanks to Dave's Guidance!!!!
I started to listen to Dave about 3 years ago and eventually purchased "The Total Money Makeover". I was $15,000 in CC debt, with a $349 car payment, making about $35,000. I had about $15,000 in stocks, savings, etc and thought I was doing great. But realized being in debt was no way to live. Now at age 30, I am debt free except for the house, no car payment, and now I'm using my most powerful money making tool (my income) to build my saving back up and the future looks bright!!!

Thanks for the guidance, Dave!!!!!

I recommend this book to anyone especially those who think they in too deep a whole to get out. Dave will show you step by step on how to do it. It's not easy but it's well worth it...

Financial Peace is an awesome feeling!

Worthwhile as a stand alone
If you purchase the workbook, you really do not need the main book as well. It would be fine on its own. This is a great, very basic system and is working extremely well for my family. Instead of living paycheck to paycheck, we are now within months of being debt free, except for our mortgage. Great system!! I highly recommend it.

An Absolutely Awesome Lifechanging Book
Like most Americans our finances were spinning out of control with our living paycheck to paycheck. After hearing Dave Ramsey on the radio I immediately purchased The Total Money Makeover book and accompanying Workbook.

Utilizing the principles outlined in these texts we have completely turned our out-of-control finances into a structured system whereby we know exactly where every penny is to be spent before the month begins. In the six weeks that we have started using these principles, we have taken Dave's advice and created an emergency fund of $1,000 for those rainy day blues that are sure to come along. In utilzing the debt snowball method of reducing personal debt we have already paid off three credit cards totaling over $2,500. We should triple that number long before Christmas.

I highly recommend these books to anyone wishing to change their lives for the better. If you cannot imagine what it would be like to put your paycheck in the bank every payday and not worry about any of the money being spent on bills then I challenge you to go immediately to pick up these books. Once you've read The Total Money Makeover you will realize that debt is not a good thing and that you truly can be debt free. Do this for yourself. Do it for your family. Buy it NOW !

Tony W. Brown
Whitehouse, TX

Shorter version of Book but well worth it
I have read both the book and own this workbook version. I would actually recommend the workbook over the book as it allows you to start the concepts quicker and put into practice into your own life much faster. The anecdotes are similiar but just condensed in this version. This version cuts to the chase with tables, suggestions, budgets, and "how to". I like the shortened version but still went back to read the full book version later. The one positive aspect of the full book versus this version is that it provided many more examples of real people using the techniques, what their outcome was, and how long it took them to get debt free. In this sense, there was more motivation there. I didn't/don't personally need that but some may need that or want that. ... Read more

Editorial Review

First time in paperback. The #1 New York Times bestseller from the phenomenal author of The Courage to Be Rich.

The world's most trusted expert on money matters answers a generation's cry for help-and gives advice on

- Credit card debt
- Student loans
- Credit scores
- The first real job
- Buying a first home
- Insurance facts: auto, home, renters, health
- Financial issues of the self-employed

And much more advice that fits the realities of "Generation Broke." ... Read more

Reviews

Why isn't this required reading in high school?
How many people graduate from high school and even college within knowing the basics of financial literacy - deciphering credit ratings, maintaining and balancing a bank account, getting through college with a minimum of student debt, making the most of that first job and, eventually, buying a home and planning for retirement?
Orman strives to close this "financial illiteracy" gap by providing invaluable info for those just starting out - although I found plenty of information I needed to know as well - and I'm well outside the "young and broke" range she seems to be targeting.
The info is not only cutting edge but many of the websites have NOT appeared in other books. One example of how new the info is: Orman notes the recent changes in credit rules noting that EVERYONE has access to a FREE credit report once a year.
Because she knows younger adults may be intimidated by a ton of financial info, Orman (wisely) delivers her advice in innovative, user-friendly ways. Each page is short, easy to read and yet chock full of info. In short, she doesn't waste words.
Each section is launched with a Lowdown on what will be covered in the chapter and there is a quick summary at the end with checklists to make sure readers know what they shouldn't have missed. A Glossary at the back of the book explains some of the more complex terms. Important website resources and key terms are boldfaced in green, a great asset when looking for important info.
Reading this book could help young people avoid many pitfalls, since Orman covers the basics such as:
* Understanding that all important credit rating and deciphering your FICO score

*Making a small paycheck stretch as far as possible while maximizing opportunites for career advancement.

* A special area on her website where buyers of the book can get UPDATES on info in the book and CONNECT with others on message boards, a great way to get info and share viewpoints (and Suze stops in regularly to answer a few select questions, giving readers an opportunity to have her answer YOUR questions)

* Current websites to get information quickly and fill in gaps. She even notes that readers can now get their FICO score FREE once a year, valuable information that is on the cutting edge of new legislation. This info alone could well be worth the price of the book.

* The rignt and wrong way to handle student debt

* How to start investing and the best funds for ROth IRAs and 401(k) accoutns.

* Buying a car, auto insurance and a home.

I consider this MUST reading for anyoone just starting an independent life and this will definitely be at the top of my gift list for any high school or college graduate. What better gift than to give someone the tools for an independent and financially secure future?

GOOD EVEN FOR US FORTY-SOMETHINGS
I haven't watched Suze on TV for that long but she always seems to make sense and what's more, common sense when it comes to making financial decisions. I guess I am a bit outside of the age range that this is intended for being in my early 40's but I still found a lot of very valuable information inside. Granted the book is squarely aimed at younger people who have just gotten out out college and are maybe a few years or more into their careers and faced with the bills of student loans. The information though is of great value to me as my first child is only 5 years away from going to college and the information about financial assistance was invaluable.

Thus while the information inside my not help me directly, I think it sets up a wonderful plan that we can use to its fullest extent when my son starts college as well as the years after. This is always a very hard time, especially when "kids" get their first lines of credit and often make the same extent of forgetting that at some point the bills have to be paid. I had some $15,000 in credit card debts, small compared to many I know, when I was in my early 30's and now have less than $2,000 which is very manageable. If i had had this book 15 years ago I might not have found myself in such a rough position. And certainly had I had the book I would have taken the advice about retirement plans much earlier than I did. As Suze puts forth, getting that 401K setup as early as you can will make life much easier down the road. Great Book!

I wish it were common sense
I purchased this book because I work for a student loan and financial literacy nonprofit organization. Having reviewed the student loan chapter of the book in its early stages, I was interested in the final product.

Not being so young or so broke (of course, I'm not satisfied with my money, but am better off than many), I still enjoyed and respected this book. It is written appropriately for this audience and addresses a number of hot topics.

Before considering this review, I read several others. Many indicated that Suze's advice is just "common sense". If only this were true. Unfortunately, studies show that the average student graduates from high school lacking basic financial literacy skills. To them, "balancing a checkbook" means using a calculator to ensure your adding and subtracking is correct. Even worse, a small percentage of the population thinks that checks in their checkbook mean they have money to spend!

Knowing this, I highly recommend Suzie's book! In addition to her clear writing and good examples, you have access to even more information on her web site, including excellent and FREE resources.

Here's to good reading and financial savvy!

The LAST of my Available Credit-Chinese Food or Orman's Book
Faced with a true financial conundrum, with a mere $30.00 in available credit on my Student Platinum Visa, I chose to purchase Suze Orman's book and settle for a doctored up frozen pizza instead. I made an incredible choice and found myself engulfed in reading a book that seemed to answer ALL of my questions and concerns about my finances wtih REAL SOLUTIONS!

I can remember how intimidated I was at completing my first Federal Student Loan Applications and Pell Grant Requests. I was terrified at the consequences of answering one of those "trick questions" improperly and ending up with little or no financial assistance. Little did I know how easy it was to get loans and to later learn that I could use a portion of the funds for material things that likely were not necessary for the completion of my degree. This is a common mistake that Ms. Orman describes in her book. Again, she turns our anxiety into UNDERSTANDING and helps us to TAKE BACK CONTROL OF OUR MONEY!

The Financial Aid Office was full of credit card offers that seemed almost too good to be true. Within a month I had accumulated 3 credit cards. Could it really be this simple? How could I manage to get extremely high credit limits from banks that knew little or nothing about me? I take full responsibility for overextending myself, but what were they thinking when they offered a Junior College Student a $4000 line of credit, especially when my source of income read "Full Time Student with No Income?"

The job market is quite anemic right now, so I settled for a position that offers great benefits in exchange for a salary that makes flipping burgers appear to look better and better! So much for ranking in the 98th percentile in the field of International Relations! Instead of working abroad, helping to make the world a better place, I'm working for a bank in the collections department for their credit card division. SUZE ADDRESSES SIMILAR ISSUES, ABOUT THE LACK OF JOBS FOR COLLEGE GRADUATES, AND HELPS US TACKLE THIS PROBLEM WITH EASE!

Enough of the negativity as my career is just beginning and I'm being productive and making payments towards the debts I owe. "I Owe, I Owe, So Off to Work I Go...!" This is one of the best books, of this important genre, that I've ever read and been so enlightened by-in every possible way. I finished reading it this evening and had so much energy that I went for a run, focused on her many strategies for making positive changes in my life, and arrived home to sit down and face all of my "Debt Demons" head on. ORMAN REACHES THE HIGHEST LEVEL EVER AND TEACHES US HOW TO RECOVER FROM ANY TEMPORARY BUMP IN THE ROAD!

In the typical financial sense, I might be considered "...Young...and Broke!" But money is only one form of currency in life. It is NOT everything and there are many other important forms of "Currency" in life. I'm blessed with a good amount of spiritual currency and friendship currency-so I'm far from being broke. I'm still Young and, for the first time in a very long time, I feel Fabulous about myself and my future. Orman's book gives each of us every possible tool we need to start saving money AND to help us take action steps to start making positive changes in many aspects of our lives.

For a long time I felt as if I was no longer the conductor of my life. "The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous and Broke" has instilled in me that I AM in control of my life and the outlook of my future is Fabulous.

If any of this makes sense to you, my suggestion is that you either purchase this book or check a copy out at the library. Because the book has so many useful tips and strategies for guaranteed success, you'll probably want to make some notes in your own personal copy.

THIS IS A BOOK THAT IS FULL OF SOLUTIONS. I review books that I think others will either enjoy or benefit from in some way. This is a book for young and old, students and parents of students, educators and financial aid planners. Don't spend another dime on another book that addresses our "Generation Debt" until you give this comprehensive and intelligent book a thorough read.

Good luck to all of you! If I can make it through this financial mess that I have created, so too can the rest of the world. And one day, I'll hear from someone who is seeking a really nice, intelligent, YOUNG and FABULOUS employee for a position in any form of International Relations.

Feel free to contact me, Peter Cannice, of Scottsdale, Arizona, at Horsepete@aol.com for additional comments or a copy of my entensive review.

I may not exactly be YF&B...
I'm thirty-something. I have a wife and two children. I've been extremely fortunate in my life to have side-stepped many of the financial potholes that Suze mentions in this book. So...Young? I'm probably topping out the range. Fabulous? In my children's eyes, yes. Broke? In a sense, but I'm doing all right.

Now, even though I may not be truly YF&B, this book has really opened my eyes. With two young children, I think more and more about obtaining a secure financial future for my family. To be honest, I've always been a little confused as to what I should really be doing to achieve that goal. Suze has made it so very clear in her book. She has confirmed in my mind that some of the things I am doing are right. In other areas (like "Big Ticket Purchases", investing and insurance) I see opportunity and room for improvement. I've already taken action. Out of all this, I finally feel confident that I'm doing the right thing for my family and myself. Thank you, Suze.

Better than the rest!
I have read many financial books, and this one by far is the most refreshing. I am learning step by step how to secure a successful, and non-broke future even after acquiring enough school loans that would make most people faint. Suze gives the young the tools to not get lost in the shuffle and to take control of their own destiny. I am very excited to no longer be broke...Thanks to Suze I am definitly on the right track!!! I highly recommend this book to ANYONE, It is very user friendly and easy to understand...not your typical money-ease.

Absolutely Fabulous
With all personal finance books, you should take the writing with a grain of salt. You have your own experiences to draw on to see if whether the advice offered is something feasible. The vast majority of personal finance books I read are not only totally unsuitable for my financial situation, they are also incredibly boring to read. To quote the author, "This is definitely not your parents' money book."

Personal finance is not the most "sexy" topic out there. It happens to be something most of us have had to figure out for ourselves through mistakes made or through the few fiscally responsibly parents who take the time to teach these things to their children. Most schools do not require a mandatory course in money managment before we graduate, although we could all benefit highly if this were added to the curriculm of high schools across the country (while I am still skeptical on the physical eduation requirement being necessary). These are lessons we need in order to get ahead in life. These are things we can not afford to not know.

Suze Orman recognizes the changing economy and realized the right financial advice for our parents is not right for us, the younger generation. She aims this book at those of us in our 20s and 30s, although it would not be a bad idea for the older generation to read it to understand the younger generation's financial situation. She understands many of us are starting out and we managed to build up a lot of debt due to the nature of the current consumer and economic environment. She does not hold these actions against us, preaching to us on how horrible we are to mishandle our finances. She tells us how to fix these problems we created for ourselves. She seems to understand the change in economic status in this country means, unlike our parents, we will not have social security, pensions, and other legitimate avenues our parents persued to fall back on.

Ms. Orman also realizes not everyone is a spreadsheet geek. Budgeting is not the grand solution to all our problems. She's still kind to those of us who are spreadsheet geeks and who like to see the numbers in front of us, but it's not a requirement to have a successful personal finance plan.

There are several surprising key points Ms. Orman makes, especially if you have read other personal finance books:

* Learn your FICO score and make sure you maintain it at a high level. This score not only effects your ability to get loans, but also the interest rate you'll pay once you get them!
* Do not close credit card accounts even if the balance is $0. These hold your credit history and effects your FICO score. Instead, keep the accounts open and destroy the physical card if you feel you can not trust yourself not to use it. Credit card companies are always happy to issue new cards.
* We are currently paying the lowest tax rates in the history of our country for our earned income. There is a very high chance these rates can not be maintained for when we retire and need to withdraw our retirement funds. This makes economic sense given the state of the country's economy. Since traditional IRAs and 401(k)s and other similar plans are taxed when you remove the money later, it makes sense to instead only invest in your 401(k) (or similar plan) for what your employer will match (never say no to free money) and then put whatever else you would put into the 401(k) into a Roth IRA. In a Roth IRA, you pay your taxes now, at a lower rate. You will not pay tax on the interest or dividends earned in the Roth IRA or the money you put in when you take it out during retirement.
* Always pay at least the minimum amounts on your credit card debt. Just missing one payment can have severe detrimental effects on your FICO score
* Do not even think of defaulting on your student loans. This is the best deal in unsecured debt you will ever get and the government will not let you get away with not paying. You are better off paying the miniums or working out a deferral if you are in financial hardship.
* Once you place your finances in order, and get your credit card interest rates on your unpaid balances (and any other loans) below 8% (it just takes a couple of phone calls), then concentrate on building savings. You should work on having 8 months of living expenses available to you.
* Once you set up your 8 months of savings, then concentrate on putting savings into a Roth IRA for retirement.

There are, of course, many other points, but these are the main highlights I was able to pull from the reading. Ms. Orman also understands it might take time to complete each of these steps. She reiterates time and time again to not rush moving on to the next step before completing the one before it, even if it takes several years to do so.

One wonderful feature of this book is the way it is organized. Instead of expecting you to read the book straight through (like I did), Ms. Orman expects you will use it as a guide to answer your specific financial questions. She does not expect people will want to read every situation in her book. After all, not every situation is the same. Customize the book to match your situation and read it. I do say this with a caveat. Reading the book in this manner would have had me skip the part about trusts. I now realize, as a single home owner, it would be a good idea to set up a revocable living trust and transfer title to my home to this trust in order to not burden my family with probate issues in the case of my death. So, there is something to be said to reading the book cover to cover. You might learn something new.

The material in this book is extremely important to read and understand. The way this book is written, in plain English, helps make this the most readable and understandable personal finance book I have ever come across. If you find the Amazon.com price is too much for you, ask for it at your local public library and borrow it. Take notes on the pertinent parts. Ask your parents to get it for you for Christmas, Hanukkah, or your next birthday. They could not buy you a better gift. Just having it as reference material has been invaluable. If you find you will not be able to get the book right away, Ms. Orman's website has an action planner where you can fill in a questionaire and have a customized action plan set for your particular financial situation. There are also forums and material updates for the book available at the website. Above all, the key to maintaining sound personal finances is to pay attention to your situation. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. Reading this book could be your first, positive step in the right direction.

This Ain't Your Parents' Money Book
Suze's book caught my eye as I was browsing my local bookstore. Young, Fabulous, and Broke is the perfect descriptor for my life right now. The cover price was ridiculous--why ask $25 for a book for broke people? Because the first thing you read in the book will make you at least that much back.

I've read dozens of personal finance books that tell you how to "just save" this much money and how life is better when you can just control your spending. Until this book, there has been nothing out there on what to do when you already are controlling your spending, and you can't make ends meet.

Suze offers advice on how to find out your credit score, how to keep it pristine (the drilldown of the components of the FICO score and how you can take advantage of each part is just fantastic). She doesn't say, "Pay off your balance every month," because she knows that a lot of the younger crew just honestly can't do that. This is about how to manage your debt, realistically, how to bank on career advances, how to understand everything from credit scores to government bonds to mortgages to 401(k)s and IRAs.

This is the book that will tell you when to prioritize saving over paying down debt, when to withdraw money from your savings and which savings, and to pay for what, how to understand the fine print on all those applications for this money fund and credit card, and what pitfalls to avoid. This is the book that generation broke has been waiting for.

Tells you exactly what to do and gives clear reasons why
My mother is a fanatic of Suze's show, so she bought this book for my sisters and me. So far I am the only one to pick it up, and I'm glad I did and I will be suggesting my sisters do the same. I don't know much about finances beyond common sense (I have no debt and pay off my credit cards every month). This book gives excellent descriptions of how to and where to invest, giving the exact information you need -- there is no need for ridiculous amounts of research since this book gives you the info you need (these companies are good companies -- the one I looked at that was highly recommended had a very low cost rate and it faired much better than my current investiments in the high rate cost company that invests my money... it won't have my money for more than another month since these other companies will as well). This book thoroughly covers 401k's and Roth IRAs, which were the two things I really wanted to look at since I am not looking to get out any serious loans in the next few years.

This book also covers a plethera of other topics, such as 403b, which loans to take in what situations, what your FICO score is and why you should care (Suze's obsession with FICO is justified -- if you don't know why, just another reason to read this book), life insurance, car insurance and car purchasing (explains why not to lease -- if you lease, you need to read at least that part of this book), advice on purchasing a home, and many other topics. If you find yourself in a tough situation, perhaps her dozens of scenarios she draws up in her book will apply to you and give you a more direct answer to your question.

This book is essential to pretty much anyone, but especially to those of us who are still reasonably young (but you are never too old to start saving for retirement!). Get up and purchase this book -- take the initiative and use this book to begin giving yourself a solid foundation. Skipping over the portions that didn't apply to me (about half of the book), it only took me about 2-3 hours to read this book. That isn't a lot of time and it has a lot of payoff, so there is no excuse except being lazy about your future. Buy this book now and follow its advice -- it will pay for itself over and over in the money you will both save and make. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This book can save you over $100,000

These days, most people assume you need to pay a boatload of money for a quality college education. As a result, students and their parents are willing to go into years of debt and potentially sabotage their entire financial futures just to get a fancy name on their diploma.

But Zac Bissonnette is walking proof that this assumption is not only false, but dangerous-a class con game designed to rip you off and doom your student to a post-graduation life of near poverty . From his unique double perspective-he's a personal finance expert (at Daily Finance) AND a current senior at the University of Massachusetts-Zac figured out how to get an outstanding education at a public college, without bankrupting his parents or taking on massive loans.

Armed with his personal knowledge, the latest data, and smart analysis, Zac takes on the sacred cows of the higher education establishment. He reveals why a lot of the conventional wisdom about choosing and financing college is not only wrong but hazardous to you and your child's financial future.You'll discover, for instance, that:

* Student loans are NOT a necessary evil.Ordinary middle class families can- and must-find ways to avoid them, even without scholarships.

* College "rankings" are useless-designed to sell magazines and generate hype. If you trust one of the major guides when picking a college, you face a potential financial disaster.

* The elite graduate programs accept lots of people with non-elite bachelors degrees.So do America's most selective employers. The name on a diploma ultimately won't help your child have a more successful career or earn more money.

Zac can prove every one of those bold assertions - and more.No matter what your current financial situation, he has a simple message for parents: "RELAX! Your kid will be able to get a champagne education on a beer budget!" ... Read more

Reviews

Changing your worldview about financing college education
This is an excellent book. I cannot recommend enough that all parents with pre-college children read this book and use the valuable information provided to take ownership of the college decision process together as a family by considering what this book has to say.

I am a CPA and a financial planner in the Boston, MA area. I see exactly what Zac describes with many families whose financial plans are dominated by education financing at the expense of other goals. I'm blown away by a 22-year old college student being able to accurately identify all of these issues, cut through all the BS spewed by the higher education and college financing industries, and support his assertions and analysis with compelling facts, data and research. I would urge anyone reading this book to not hold Zac's age against his analysis. His analysis is spot-on accurate. In fact, his age is useful for lending credibility to the anecdotes he does mention in the book about campus life and his experiences. He knows what he's talking about because he's living it.

For years, I've struggled with the question of whether you need to attend an expensive college to get a quality college education. It didn't seem right to me, but I didn't have the information to assess this one way or the other. As Zac clearly shows, there are huge industries with tons of money at stake to make people believe that an expensive college is a must for your child's education. As Louis Brandeis said, "sunshine is the best disinfectant". This is one book that is the sunshine that exposes these industries for what they are.

Being in Massachusetts, I would feel very comfortable guiding my children to a Massachusetts public college armed with the information that Zac provides. I would know that I am giving my child every opportunity to have a terrific college experience and a wonderful opportunity for a successful and fulfilling life. UMass should be extremely proud of having Zac as a recent graduate.

Debt-Free U: How I paid for an outstanding college education without Loans scholarships, or mooching off my parents
Wow, I couldn't put the book down, with every page I could see all the ways to save money. This book is worth its weight in gold. Words cannot describe what this book has down for me, I really feel I have an insider in college and it has greatly reduced my stress of having my first child go off to college next year. This book contains more than finacial tips, it covers every aspect of college, from course tips to professor information, I can't say enough, you definately won't be dissapointed.
It was a fun read and will share with other college bound students. I have five teens and if I can do this anybody can. take care enjoy the journey. Debbie
PS I wrote this at 6a getting five kids off to school please excuse the typos.

Excellent
Debt-Free U: How I Paid for an Outstanding College Education Without Loans, Scholarships, orMooching off My Parents

The author reveals many ways to get a top flight education without getting yourself and your parents needlessly in debt. He backs up his assertions with hard facts, data, and research. For over-priced universities, it is an "Emperor has no clothes" moment. Highly recommended.

a new way of looking at college
Zac Bissonette has a revolutionary idea here -- It's nothing short of a new way of looking at college education as a value-driven purchase. He forces parents to examine whether they are really doing right by their kids to laden themselves with debt. He's totally on the money when he says college financial aid officers aren't there to help you -- they exist to sell you loans so you can pay for their salaries. Bissonette is changing the way America sees college. We are emerging from this recession as a nation schooled in living within our means. College educations are part of that equation. Great book for everyone with a child -- even ones in pre-school.Debt-Free U: How I Paid for an Outstanding College Education Without Loans, Scholarships, orMooching off My Parents

must read
Loved, loved, loved this book! This book is an easy read and may just change your life. As one who left 8 years of higher ed at private Universities with 6 figure student loans (thankfully now paid off) I may have done things differently if I had the benefit of this book 20 years ago. I'm thankful to be armed with this information before navigating the college selection process with my own kids. So much great research and information - this book has turned my assumptions and perceptions upside down about the benefits of shelling out tens of thousands of dollars for a prestigious school's name on your diploma. I am recommending this book to all my friends with teenagers!

AVOID COLLEGE DEBT!!! Thanks for explaining it all Zac.
I just heard on CNN that college debt passed credit card debt. That statistic alone should make anyone who will be paying for a college education read this compelling book. Zac tells it like it is and challenges a lot of conventional wisdom along the way. He is wise beyond his years and I expect we'll be hearing a great deal more from him in the future.

Debt-Free U- The Best Book You'll Ever Actually Want To Finish
The book was amazing. I could go on and on for days but this by far was a book I wanted to read word for word.

Zac Bissonnette author of "Debt-Free U" is a college senior with a jumpstart on life.
He's created a book which will clearly explain to you the in's-and-out of the financial aid and college tuition systems.

Colleges try to get you to come to their school.
Financial Aid can't pay for your tuition.
Loans are extremely risky.

What do you do when scholarships can't pay for college, and you're basically poor.

Zac outlines it in black and white.

A+++++++

Living Debt Filled U
I am here to say that Zac's book is a very true and college debt should be avoided. I know personally after financing my college education through student loans. I was 22 years old, without a job and 80,000 in debt. I personally except responsibility for debt accumulated and will pay them off and not look for a handout. I just wish I read a book in 2004 and had the information. I could have made better choices then the cliques most hear about going to college. This books shows the other side and it will allow people the best choices for each situation. Obliviously this book is not gold but should be used and I believe followed.

Now a little more on my story...

I am a firm believer that its not where you go its who you know. I took my great private diploma and got told it would open doors. The only jobs that I got call backs from were where I knew people and had an in. Networking anyone? I graduated and instead of being happy and looking forward to my life and career I was TERRIFIED and SCARED that I could not make my minimum payments. I will say that my debt did make me more determined to get a job to pay for the debt. I was extremely lucky and had an in and got a teaching job at a great place because of my networking and personal characteristics not much because of my "school." I have been working extremely hard to get out of my debt I teach, coach 3 teams, and bar tend. I am currently 25 and have paid over half of my loan off. The same student loan company that never alerted me of interest being accumulated but now that I am paying off in advance they tell me I do not have to make a payment until March 15, 2014. (If they ever call me I feel bad for the person who talks to me) I have put off my personal life goals (i.e. home ownership, family, investing) to pay off the debt. I CANNOT WAIT TO BE DEBT FREE!!! GO ON DAVE RAMSEY AND YELL I'M DEBT FREE!!!

It really comes down to this everyone and I really wish Zac hit on it in his book a little more. Maybe without being on the debt side of the college life he may have not felt this. Would you rather enjoy a four, five, six... years of college paying for with debt then having to work the rest of your life to get out of the debt hole you dug OR worked hard while you have the energy to and pay for school as you go, live within your means and then graduate college debt free and able to start your life at age 22? I wish I would have had the information in this book so that I could have chose the latter. I will use your book to help my classroom seniors to make the best choices for them!

Bought it for my son - read it myself...
The rules have changed since I attended college. The #1 change is that college debt has gone from close to ZERO to a $600 billion industry. Admissions officers may be more debt salesmen than academic advisors - be warned! Get informed. A well educated consumer [even of education] is best prepared. ... Read more

Editorial Review

THE NATIONAL BESTSELLING BOOK THAT EVERY INVESTOR SHOULD OWN

Peter Lynch is America's number-one money manager. His mantra: Average investors can become experts in their own field and can pick winning stocks as effectively as Wall Street professionals by doing just a little research.

Now, in a new introduction written specifically for this edition of One Up on Wall Street, Lynch gives his take on the incredible rise of Internet stocks, as well as a list of twenty winning companies of high-tech '90s. That many of these winners are low-tech supports his thesis that amateur investors can continue to reap exceptional rewards from mundane, easy-to-understand companies they encounter in their daily lives.

Investment opportunities abound for the layperson, Lynch says. By simply observing business developments and taking notice of your immediate world -- from the mall to the workplace -- you can discover potentially successful companies before professional analysts do. This jump on the experts is what produces "tenbaggers," the stocks that appreciate tenfold or more and turn an average stock portfolio into a star performer.

The former star manager of Fidelity's multibillion-dollar Magellan Fund, Lynch reveals how he achieved his spectacular record. Writing with John Rothchild, Lynch offers easy-to-follow directions for sorting out the long shots from the no shots by reviewing a company's financial statements and by identifying which numbers really count. He explains how to stalk tenbaggers and lays out the guidelines for investing in cyclical, turnaround, and fast-growing companies.

Lynch promises that if you ignore the ups and downs of the market and the endless speculation about interest rates, in the long term (anywhere from five to fifteen years) your portfolio will reward you. This advice has proved to be timeless and has made One Up on Wall Street a number-one bestseller. And now this classic is as valuable in the new millennium as ever. ... Read more

Reviews

Be smart and BUY this book!
We really do know more than we think about investing. This book shows you how to apply your knowledge to make good investments.

But, like many people, I didn't have spare money to make investments with.

So I also recommend the book, SIMPLE MONEY SOLUTIONS, because it showed me and my kids how to "free up cash" every month without feeling deprived.

I highly recommend both books!

These 2 Books Worked For Me, Too
Make sure you are buying the correct version. This one here is listed as mini version. (I've seen this version get a lot of bad reviews.) Mini version is cheaper = $4.50 but the FULL version is $9.50. The full version is the more famous of the two.

The 2 Best Money Books of 2000
This is *not* the full version. Check out the size and the number of pages and compare to other versions. Don't buy this book if you want the complete version.

Great book!
This is the sixth book I have read on investment in one year. Along with "A random walk down wall street" by Burton Malkiel it has bee the best and most informative. For a while I do not think I will read any investment books before I make sure I can follow Mr. lynch's SIMPLE AND PROFITABLE advice. His classification of stocks are great and his timing for buying and selling each of these classfication are also great (fast growers, slow growers, turnarounds, asset plays, cyclicals). His chapter "stocks I would avoid" is full of sincere warnings of foolish mistakes we make over and over. Add to this the introductory chapters where he explains why we should invest in what we already know makes this book a must read. It is amazing how many opportunities we all miss on stocks that are right in front of us, yet we ignore them and waste our time finding the hottest stocks when mostly these stocks are overly priced. Let me tell you about a small example of what I am talking about. I use Yahoo finance alot in my research almost on daily basis, but I never thought of knowing the company that provides it with all this wonderful information. And while once scrolling down the Yahoo page I read that Tibco Software provides it with the quote technology. (I remembered Lynch when he says that we spend most of our time trying to find the great stock when the great stock has been striving to find us). I rushed to check the stock out. Too bad it has already increased more than tenfold in a month time. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU WITH YOUR NEXT TEN BAGGERS.

The *MOST* SENSIBLE and FUN investment book you'll ever read
Forget about those "Here-are-my-Wall-Street-secrets- that-will-make-you-a-millionaire" books. Peter Lynch takes all the "non" out of the "nonsense" about investing in stocks. For whoever you are, you're an expert in your field and you can beat Wall Street fund managers by following two simple Peter Lynch rules: "Invest in what you understand" and "Invest in companies you like". Not only will this be MOST SENSIBLE and USEFUL investment book you'll ever own, it'll also be the MOST FUN investment book you'll ever read. BUY THIS BOOK! ... Read more

Editorial Review

“A highly readable and substantial guide to the grown-up realms of money and business.” —Deborah Stead, The New York Times,

If you've been meaning to get your finances in shape but have no idea where to start, this is your playbook: The all-new edition of the New York Times bestseller Get a Financial Life busts open the system, teaching tricks for becoming master of your own money universe. No matter what's happening in the economy, all the guidance you need is right here. You'll learn how to:

• Pay off your credit cards and student loans and live debt free

• Start saving, even if you're living paycheck to paycheck

• Take advantage of the latest tax rules and save a bundle

• Find smart investments while still supporting socially responsible companies

• Come up with a down payment and buy a home, even in a tough economy

• Afford grad school

• Protect yourself from identity theft

And you'll discover why a 401(k) is your best friend—even if the market is tanking.

From tracking your spending to finding deals on insurance to navigating the new world of homebuying, this easy-to-understand, comprehensive guide provides an up-to-date road map of the world of personal finance. Whether you earn $30,000 or $300,000, are single or married, are drowning in debt or just looking for ways to keep your savings secure in uncertain times, you'll find the answers you need in Get a Financial Life.

“A daring book. . . .A life's worth of smart financial advice.” —Newsweek

Reviews

An excellent introduction to managing your finances
I bought an earlier version of this book way back in 1996. I had just gotten my first job and I was looking for information on how to manage money and to find out how much I could "afford" when buying a car and/or other expensive stuff. This book helped with all of that. It helped me understand the basics of personal finance, loans, insurance, 401(k), etc. There's lots of good advice in there, so I'd certainly recommend buying this book. The information is this book is beautifully organized and very easy to digest.

Unfortunately, I haven't learnt a whole lot about personal finance since reading this book. I've read numerous books on personal finance after this one. All of them tend to say more or less the same things as this book, but they haven't said it as well.

Bottomline, if you understand the basics of personal finance (such as the principles of compounding, the importance of investing early in a 401(k), why it's bad to have credit card debt, etc.), you can probably afford to skip this book. Otherwise, it's a must have.

An easy-to-use reference guide
I bought the original edition of this book after seeing Ms. Kobliner on a morning news program. I was rather uninformed about my finances at that point. I had several thousands of dollars of credit card debt, was about to finish grad school and get married, and didn't have a job waiting. Worried about merging my bad financial life with my future husband's relatively well-organized one, I bought this book.

Together, my husband and I read it and developed a road map for what we thought we needed to accomplish. It gave us the basics to get our financial life on track, including paying off all the credit card debt (we carry none at all), getting a mortgage, buying a new car, and starting retirement plans. Now that we arethinking about insurance, starting a family, planning for college funds, etc., this was the first place I thought to turn for well-seasoned advice.

This book covers a lot of topics in an accessible format, but I acknowledge that for someone who is already aware of their finances and has some knowledge, it may be repetitive. But I always find myself wanting to go back to it when I have questions--so today I'm buying the updated edition, and letting a financially challeneged friend keep the other one.

Finances made easier
Finally, a book that doesn't assume your money woes are allowing your heirs to intherit their trust funds with as little tax as possible, finding the best long term care insurance, or how to save money by clipping coupons and doing every house project yourself. (I even read a book on frugality once that suggested getting a goat, because you won't have to mow your lawn anymore and you can have fresh milk everyday)
How about a book for someone who knows that the best time to invest is when you are young, but is intimidated by the purposefully complicated langauge of the financial world? That would be this book. It is written very comprehensively, occasionally so much so that it feels a little "dumbed down", but that is okay.
Get a financial life starts with the basics of the basics. Setting up a checking account and an emergency savings fund, and avoiding bank fees while you do it. I couldn't help but to think, if you are in your thirties and don't have a checking account yet, you need more help than this book could provide...but anyway, this book then goes on to cover credit cards, auto insurance, health insurance, 401k plans vs. IRAs and Roth IRA's, mutual funds. It does it in a way which is not so dry to read that you feel like falling asleep, and not so demanding that you know you will never be able to accomplish your finacial goals without spending your life huddled over a calculator.
I would gladly loan this book to anyone who is going to be on their own for the first time. You HAVE TO know this stuff if you are going to make it in the real world.

Just what the doctor ordered
My father bought this book for me and it's been absolutely great to read and take notes from. It isn't deep, it isn't complicated, but it does have some very good information in it. I'm 21, about to graduate from college, and admittedly don't exactly have the best financial practices in the world. This book has already helped me get more organized and on-the-ball with my finances, though, and I think it's something I'll keep around as reference for some time. A previous reviewer complained that the book is shortsighted and only targeted at people in their 20s and 30s. Well, so what? If you want more in-depth, there are more than enough books out there to cover all the things you could possibly want to know. This isn't meant to be a guiding light for your personal finance from now until you die. it is meant for younger people and it serves them quite well, I think. It's not a limitless resource or something for people already well-versed in good personal finance management. If you're looking for a handy book with practical, real-world advice, though, then this should serve you quite well.

A Must Read for Those Just Starting Out.
When I got out into the "real world" at age 21 I was a financial wreak. I didn't know ANYTHING! I spent and spent and spent and when I realized that the my bank account was nothing like my parents I knew that I had to get help.

I heard the author give an interview about the book on a local morning talk show and it sounded like the help that I needed.

I've read this book cover to cover twice and have often used it as a reference tool. This is a great book...well written...and brimming with useful pertinant information. I've recommended this book and have actually bought it for a friend that was financially lost.

Excellent gift for those in their early 20s!
It is a very easy read - and can either be read cover-to-cover, or you can read which chapters you think will help you most. I have had a hard time trying to read Rich Dad, Poor Dad (as it is rather boring), but this book was a great read. It really helps you understand different financial terms and how it effects you. Also, (not to be a dork, but...) it kinda empowers you by showing you how you can control your finanical situation - no matter if you make $10,000 a year or $100,000 a year.

I really, really recommend this book - it completely helped my husband & I figure out how to manage finances post-college and how to better our situation. Which also helps our relationship, because we don't have to argue about money - we developed a sound financial strategy which we both understand. I am not going to pretend it didn't take 7 months of mistakes to realize how important some things are :) Some things you just have to learn on your own!

An outstanding roadmap to getting your finances in order
This book served me well as an introduction to the fundamentals of personal finance. By following each step before moving on to the next, "Get a Financial Life" helped me formulate a financial plan and make it a reality. I repaired my credit, bought my first house, paid off my student loans, eliminated my credit card and automotive debt, and created a way to save/invest 28% of my gross monthly income. It required a few years of sacrifices on my part, but I credit this book with teaching me the "how, what, when and whys" of financial freedom.

EXCELLENT! A MUST HAVE.
This fantastic book has more than debt reducing and savings advice. It consists of very readable information about investments, taxes, and insurance. All the things we HAVE to know about (but either do not know where to begin reading or dread having to learn about) are laid out in an organized and simple manner in this book. Because of what I've learned from this book I can thoroughly understand anything in my life that concerns money and I can go on to read more indepth financial information. ... Read more