Reviews (8)

Money Therapy
An interesting book in a field that has been begun to be explored - the emotional and spiritual aspects of money. I especially appreciated the author's discussion of money's creative and fluid nature. Her emphasis on maintaining your integrity while seeking greater financial prosperity is particularly welcome - one aspect of investing which often gets forgotten when people focus on making money.

Money Therapy
Most people have a love/hate relationship with money.Most people also don't have as much money as they think they should have or need; and those who have lots of money often find that they're still not happy.Deborah L. Price addresses these problems in her latest book, Money Therapy.

Price is a licensed investment advisor and stockbroker.She is now a money coach consultant.She has condensed her more than fifteen years experience into a process called money therapy.

She explains that we are not meant to spend our lives shopping and working to pay off debt.The purpose of her book, she says, is "to help you remember the purpose of your life: the original purpose."Money is only one of the many tools available for achieving that purpose.

Price advises people to start building the life they want before they have money.Too many people waste their lives waiting for money to come first, and are still unhappy if it does come.She details how to build a strong foundation based on what you truly want from life, and then how to manifest the money needed to achieve your goals.

Over the years, she's observed eight "money types," based on how people feel about money.These are the innocent, victim, warrior, martyr, fool, creator/artist, tyrant, and the money magician.The money types are meant to be a "guide to discovering the impact of your past experiences with money and to changing your approach in the future."Price describes the weaknesses and strengths of each, and explains how people can turn themselves into money magicians who have all that they need and the ability to enjoy it.She's included a simple quiz to help readers determine which type they are.

She emphasizes throughout the book that the only real value that money has is the value we give to it.Money itself is just pieces of paper.We forget this, and attribute power to money.This leads feeling out of control and making financial choices based on fear.

Price has filled Money Therapy with advice on how to overcome negative and fearful feelings about money.She provides "practical steps toward acknowledging the hold of money on our minds and emotions and then using those insights to create not only a better relationship to money but also the wealth and prosperity we desire."

Money Therapy: A Path for Spiritual and Psychological Growth
I've read dozens of books on money (and completed hundreds of exercises), and what I appreciated most about Deborah's cogent volume was its "user-friendly" format.In contrast, Maria Nemeth's "The Energy of Money," while comprehensive, was intimidating in the level of commitment required to complete her program.Deborah's work inspired me (a psychotherapist) to complete the training she provides through the Money Coaching Institute and make it the focus of the psychospiritual work I do with clients. Deborah is not a "therapist" per se, but she KNOWS how people relate to money as a result of her many years of experience in the financial services industry, and has communicated her knowledge straightforwardly and helpfully in her book. Her vision is to help individuals harmoniously integrate the energy of money into all aspects of their lives and, by example, become healers themselves. I found this to be a unique approach, valuable to me personally, and proving valuable to my clients as well.

Money Therapy
I found this book so refreshing! Compared to other standard financial money advice books, the author, Deborah Price, integrated money archetypes and spirituality giving the reader a chance to look at money in amore fulfilling, richer way. The book gave me tools to beable to filter out the negative subconscious views we have about money and how to turn our views into a more positive, selfserving "Money Magician".

Deborah is the best
I had to read this book two times...BECAUSE IT'S GOOD!.. Deborah not only touches the inner workings of the finanical side of the brain, she also explains the importance of keeping the faith alive inside your being. I have had the pleasure of personally talking to Deborah, and just to let all you readers out there...that she is a great person, very friendly and VERY SMART!Keeping the faith is the key to sucess! Working out finanical plans and keeping you on the right track is what she does well. THIS BOOK IS A MUST ! Best wishes to all that read it and hope that Deborah writes another real soon ! ... Read more

Book Description

75% of Americans don't have a plan for their estate.Are you one of them?

This book takes you step by step through all the options and decisions you need to make to protect your assets now and later, provide for your heirs, and pass on your estate virtually intact.Estate Planning Made Easy also includes hundreds of easy to implement planning tips and a full glossary. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Estate Planning Explained
Knowing little about estate planning, I was forced (quickly) to bring myself up to speed on the subject. I found this book to cover, and explain, the processes behind estate planning. The book explains the topic well and gives the reader several good references. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While researching a Wall Street Journal story on married women and money, journalist Heidi Evans discovered that secret savings accounts were commonplace--regardless of age, background, and economic status. In How to Hide Money from Your Husband ... and Other Time-Honored Ways to Build a Nest Egg, Evans explores the advantages of stashing personal cash from the eyes (and control) of a spouse while outlining a series of ways that it can effectively be done. Evans argues that, given the uncertainties of modern life, such behavior may be necessary: "Face facts, ladies. Virtually half of you will be divorced in your lifetime. Are you financially prepared for what comes next?" She presents stories of women who are already stockpiling money in closets, mutual funds, and even real estate, and offers suggestions and observations from the likes of Ann Landers, psychotherapist Sharyn Wolf, and divorce attorney Myrna Felder. Those in secure and fiscally balanced relationships may balk at her contentions, but Evans asserts that such activity can also strengthen a good marriage by creating resources that could eventually be used for the benefit of both partners. --Howard Rothman ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A great wedding gift for your daughter and daughter in law.
It's not about cheating your husband, it's about having a little money that you can call your own. It's about not having to account for every penny you spend. It's about what you deserve. Been married 40+ years and wish I read this book long ago. Last week I took my daughter, daughter-in-law and all my grandchildren out for breakfast with MY money. It really felt great!

I guess OJ read "How to murder your wife"????
Nothing much I can say other than what a sick subject.In fact, it is a crime in a community property state to do what is advocated in this book.I guess she didn't do any research on that issue.Pure garbage!

get one for every woman you know
The book is quick easy to read, with interesting anecdotes to illustrate the points presented. There are more anecdotes than nuts and bolts advice, but overall I think it is a wonderful book. I sincerely wish I had read this book before I got married, it would have helped me immensely. I imagine we would be buying our dream home now if I had had this wake up call back then. Every young woman should read this before she starts out on her own, whether she plans to marry or not. The book is not "anti-man", but rather pro-woman in the sense that women traditionally are not taught to protect themselves financially and this book helps women realize the emotional and practical consequences of not protecting their monetary power within their lives and within any relationship - and how to build their monetary power from any point they are in their lives.
Judge Judy's intro is great.
I found it at the library, and decided I had to buy it and lend it out to friends.

Morally Vapid
Here is an idea... write a book on how to shoplift "little things" from retail establishments who probably would not miss them, put in a few handy recipies or other "useful information", and title it... "How to get away with petty theft... and other Time Honored way to build a high fashion wardrobe on a budget".

Why is it more acceptable to steal from a person with whom you are supposed to share your greatest trust... your spouse, than to steal from an impersonal retail establishment?

Look at the words... Time Honored Tradition.As if women have been engaging in petty (or not so petty) theft from their spouses for "generations" making it a "tradition" and therefore acceptable.

Theft is taking that which is not yours.Betrayal is breaking trust granted in good faith.This book encourages women to engage in theft and betrayal, and then rationalize the behaviour by calling it a "time honored tradition".

This book gives ammo to misogynists.It can not possibly be a good thing for women.Read it, just to see how morally vapid we can be.

Excellent book
This book is a thought-provoking work that provides women with many practical ideas for accumulating a nest egg.It could be viewed as teaching women to be deceptive or it could be viewed for what it really is, a work that encourages women to empower themselves with the number one source of power in society: money. There are practical bits of advice for women of all ages and according to Evans,its never too late to start a nest egg. Overall, I would have to say that I strongly recommend this book to women, only I doubt you should EVER let the men in your life read it! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great stuff to learn in here!
This book is so helpful and wonderful. I bought two and gave one to my daughter who has just gotten married and she loved it too. A must-read for people to need to get straight with their financial planning!

24 hours to learn financil planning!
This book completely lives up to it's 24 hours expectation. After reading it, I feel as though I know exactly what to do with my financial plans. This book has intelligent information with quite a touch of humor to go along with it. I think everyone planning for their future whether they are old or young should definitely read this book. Take it from me, it is incredibly helpful! ... Read more

Book Description

A STEP-BY-STEP PROGRAM THAT SHOWS PARENTS WHAT TO DO AT EACH STAGE OF A CHILD'S LIFE TO PROVIDE WEALTH FOR THE NEXT GENERATION.

If you're like most parents, you know that you should start saving for your children's future but you're just not sure where to begin.

In Make Your Kid a Millionaire, Kevin McKinley presents eleven easy ways parents can give their children a college education, a home, a comfortable retirement, and a chance to reach their goals without looking to you for money. With a commonsense approach, McKinley takes the reader from the birth of a child into adulthood and

Book Description

Straight-up, jargon-free advice on personal finance for those made nauseous by the phrase "personal finance."

Book Description

How can you manage to be wealthy?

In Managing to Be Wealthy, John Sestina, a 30 year veteran and visionary founder of fee only financial planning, shows you how to put together a financial plan using sensible, proven, low risk investing techniques.Let John Sestina show you the secrets the pros use to start managing to be wealthy today.Whether novice or experienced, this book leads investors toward financial independence by helping them select the right financial advisor and get the most from that relationship.Financial advisors can use the book as well to educate their clients. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

An awesome book
A simple concise way of managing your money. No fluff and it comes from a man who has done it and helped a lot of people manage their money successfully. He is a self made millionaire, not from writing books, but from actually making and managing money (unlike many other so called financial gurus)

Buy this book NOW!
I can't put it down. The book is concise and to the point. It feels like Mr. Sestina is speaking directly to you. This is not a book you just read and put down to collect dust. You definitely need to have a pen, highlighter, and paper so you can put his principles to work immediately. It's no wonder John Sestina is the BEST Financial Planner in the country. Get the book.

Believe it or not, I actually enjoyed reading it!
This book is an absolute pleasure to read! Not only because learning the fundamentals of successful financial planning from the most qualified financial planner in the country but also the information in this book is written in a very easy to understand, very structured, not confusing language. It certainly takes the fear and myth out of financial planning. Regardless of your current financial knowledge and status, you can start to apply John's most insightful experience and valuable advice for the price of a book. This cost of this book will, for sure, give you the highest ROI. Get one today if you don't already have one and read it! Believe it or not, you will enjoy reading it too!

The Best
A great book for persons of any income to help get started on the path to financial freedom.

"Where we live" book on planning
John Sestina shows how with Common Sense you can get on track to having a truly secure financial future. The steps he describes are in laymen's terms that can be followed without having to have a Doctorate Degree in Finance. Great Book. I've given copies of this book to my family. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

If you're living paycheck-to-paycheck, BUY THIS NOW!
After seeing the "frugal friends" on Houston's "Debra Duncan" show, I was completely amazed. They shared a few common sense tips that made one of my girlfriends with 2-year-old twin girls say, "Oh my GOSH, what a GREAT idea!" when I told her the frugal friends' tips just on bandaids! (Again, buy the book.) Try cutting down a $400 grocery bill to about $140 or so. Think it can't be done? Think again, and buy this book!

The tips will more than pay for your investment in the book. I am a single person, in my early 30s, and I LOVE this book. I love it so much, I carry it around with me everywhere now since I can't remember all the tips and might need to look something up when I'm about to reach into my purse to spend money.

What's even better is getting an immediate response from them when I emailed through their site (frugalfamilynetwork.com). That's almost unheard of!

If you think you need a part-time job for the holiday season or you're living paycheck to paycheck, get this book. You'll be forever grateful. You'll have more time and more money without quitting your job or getting a salary increase!

Great buy!
Angie P.
Houston, Texas

Cheap Talk with the Frugal Friends
Wow! I haven't read a book with this much useful information in ages!...I've been using their grocery shopping tips and have already shaved off $50 a week from my bill. Their tips on Pet Care and Save On Sports are real creative and I'm trying them out now. My favorite part was the unique recycling ideas they have. I never thought of using those free CDs I get in the mail to keep birds out of my garden! These ladies are great. I feel like I know them after reading just a couple chapters. Can't wait for Cheap Talk 2!

Cheap or tacky?
I was looknig for tips on saving money and found mostly common sense items and a few downright tacky suggestions. You can be frugal without being tacky. While some of the ideas are great for people with a lot of time on their hands, time is money also and if it takes you all day to make homemade fruit snacks, what are you really saving?

Good information, new ideas
Cheap talk was full of good ideas that I had not heard or thought of before. I had been reading alot on frugality lately and was glad to finally get a book with some fresh, useful ideas. Borrow it from your local library today!(being frugal are we are)

Don't agree with knothead11
I don't agree with the review knothead11 wrote. She (or he) stated a couple suggestions that may not be very useful (for her). I believe this book is loaded with many valueable bits of information and great ideas in saving money. Not all ideas are for everyone. Everyone has different levels of thriftiness, and if you are very frugal, you may have already learned many of the tips in this book. However, I believe the higher percentage of people truly need this book and will find a great deal of the Frugal Friends tips very very useful. ... Read more

Book Description

"How do we help make black America better? Jesse Brown reminds us that we gain financial success and security when we pay ourselves first."–Tavis Smiley, author of How to Make Black America Better: Leading Black Americans Speak Out

"Jesse Brown’s commonsense approach is a surefire way to watch your money grow."–Myra J., The Tom Joyner Morning Show

Achieve your financial freedom with step-by-step instructions from award-winning investment manager Jesse B. Brown. Discover the easy-to-follow, down-to-earth secret to living your dreams, whether it’s buying a new home, buying a new car, sending your children to college, retiring rich, or going on that once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

Pay Yourself First is a must-have reference guide for all African Americans who want to experience their own financial security. If you make less than $30,000 a year–or if you are simply a first-time investor–here is your financial "411" on:

• How to get out of debt and stay out of debt permanently
• How to avoid the most common mistakes people make with their money
• How to put time and money to work for you instead of against you
• Everything you need to know about today’s best investment options, including IRAs, insurance, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds

Jesse Brown has already shown thousands and thousands of African Americans how to successfully manage their money–and make even more while they’re doing it. Now you can begin your own journey to wealth. From free money for family emergencies to the fundamentals of saving and investing, Jesse Brown will give you the help you need to secure the things you want and be a winner. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Just What I Need
Linda Moore

I am currently reading Pay Yourself First, it is wonderful. Everything I have wanted to know about personal finance is in the book, and so simple and easy. This book is an answer to my prayer. May God bless the author.

Investment side of Finance
Pay Yourself First is an excellent Book. I am a Mortgage Consultant and I think that it is important that I understand the investment side of Finance. Not only for my client's sake but for my sake as well. I have read countless books and articles on Investing. I have to say your book was the easiest to follow. Thanks for such a great book. I will keep my ears and eyes open for your next book.

A real stock tip
Mr. Brown I read your article in a recent copy of our newspaper, The Final Call and I was very happy to see it. I went out and got the book. I have been looking for information about investing and Allah answered my prayer. Thank You. (Salaam)

Things don't Just Happen
Thanks for writing this book. Your introduction to my life is quite timely. Things don't just happen, they happen Just. (Smile) Keep up the good work! Your contribution to life and our community is a great and needed work, thanks!
Sonya Harris

Down to Earth
I like the way you explained your investment strategies. Thank you for presenting yourself in such a way that people can benefit from your experience and trust your advice.
adrienne ... Read more

Book Description

It's Time for Your (Financial) Checkup!

Whether you have just won the lottery or are struggling to meet monthly expenses, your future financial comfort depends on creating and sticking to a long term money management strategy.Personal finance expert Jordan Goodman's new book Everyone's Money Book on Financial Planning helps you do just that. ... Read more

Book Description

This third collection of the best of Dacyczyn's popular newsletter presents all-new advice and tips, culled from the fifth and sixth years of The Tightwad Gazette. A tireless advocate of "voluntary simplicity, " Dacyczyn offers lessons in advanced "tightwaddery, " such as how to cut back APR interest points on credit cards, strategies for comparing food bills, guides to saving on the cost of college, and the secrets of yard sales and store bargains. Illustrations. 320 pp. Author tour. Radio ads. 150,000 print. (Reference) ... Read more

Reviews (18)

A sound theory and great help putting it into practice
Anyone who has ever felt a little envious of a neighbor or said "Gee, I wish could afford a house/staying home with the kids/starting a business/traveling/etc." MUST read one of Amy's books. The basic philosophy as I understand it is just this: skip the temporary, one-time expenditures and spend the bucks on a more lasting investment (house/kids/business/early retirement/whatever YOU dream of). I received an economics degree not too long ago, and I recognized Amy's philosophy immediately as essentially the basic "guns-or-butter" discussion from ECO101, the basic problem of limited resources and economic choice. The idea in class, as in real life, would be to MAXIMIZE the VALUE received for the dollars, not just buy whatever until you're broke and then figure out what you got for it.

More than any other author I have seen, Amy challenges her readers to examine their own values and utilize all of their creativity and intelligence to maximize the value they receive for their money. This is NOT a "don't shop when you're hungry, use coupons, and gee, try to pay down your mortgage" book. Amy provides an impressive array of real, creative, effective methods to slash waste of resources: money, time and the enviroment. The books teach you to THINK in a "tightwaddy" (economic) way and take real control of your future according to your own value system, instead of just throwing out a handful of one-time-only "tips". I can honestly say it brought microeconomics home to me and changed my life.

don't waste your money
This is the third book in the Tightwad Gazette trilogy that I have read. Thank goodness I found it at the library and did not pay for it! I enjoyed the first two books. I got some good ideas from Amy and grinned at the ideas that were too extreme for my family. I respected her choices in life and it helped me to think about the purchases I made and the effect I had on our environment. However, in the T.G. III, I found her to be overbearing, selfish, and a little crazy. She preaches about parents living frugally to enable 1 to stay home with children, however she admits to spending very little time with hers unless they are interested in helping her with her "save money" projects. What about your children's own interests? How about spending a little of all the time you have with them? Her quest for saving has not only shown her ability to spare her pennies, but her time and heart as well. She brags about Not: 1. volunteering 2. reading to her children 3. spending time with family 4. socialize etc. This sounds very lonely to me. I'm afraid that Amy's quest for money has allowed her to become as greedy as the people she condemns as "spendthrifts". At Amy's house, it's all about Amy and what Amy wants.

great resource for the new to thrift crowd
I got this book as I was leaving work to become a stay at home mom. I can't say that I will use every idea she recommends but it does have some good ideas in it. For example, it may be cheaper not to coupon solely but to combine it with keeping a price book and only using coupons for items you would buy normally. As far as the editorials on child rearing and the environment go, I simply paged thru that though I don't disagree with her sentiments. I do wish the layout would be more organized but that is solved by simply reading the book and using the index. Not a bad read altogether and quite informative. If you already frugal, this may not tell you anything you don't know. For those of us novices, this is a great start.

Spend the money for this, you'll save a thousand times over
I am just starting on the road to learning how to live on less, not because I have to; because I want to. There are some ways to save money listed in the book that I will probably never do, but overall I learned a lot, and enjoyed reading it while I learned. I purchased several other books on the same subject, but none gave me as much usable information as this book did. If you are serious about learning to conserve money, quit reading this review and order the book.

Real tightwads shouldn't waste the money
I cannot imagine that there are so many people who would put some of these suggestions to work. This book is definately for the cheapest of the cheap and not someone looking for easy ways to save a buck here and there on groceries, etc. The book is just a collection of articles sent in by readers on how they save money and some of them are just NUTS!! If you really want to save money just use some common sense and self-control and DO NOT waste good money on this book. I absolutely refuse to put together a list of what my children will need in terms of clothing for the next 100 years, complete with measurements of sizes and then show up at yard sales at 6am every Saturday in the summer. Unlike some, I consider the time consumed with these tactics to be worth more than a pair of $3 jeans from a yard sale that I will then save for 5 years or better and make all my kids wear them. Sorry for being so harsh, but I really do not like this book! ... Read more

Book Description

The landscape concerning same-sex relationships is changing. It is vital for lawyers to stay on top of these changes. Attorneys who represent lesbian and gay clients must provide creative estate planning tht aprotects both parties, their children and thier future. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Written by three veteran consumer experts who escaped the rat race, Invest in Yourself is a comprehensive guide for saving money and becoming a better person in the process. The book offers six secrets to the rich life--the first is to determine what you want in a career, write Marc Eisenson, Gerri Detweiler, and Nancy Castleman. "By carefully investing your time, energy, and maybe a little money, you can find out where you really want to go--and then do what you need to get there," they write. "It's one of your best investment opportunities, way better than anything you can get in the stock market." The other five keys: invest in intangibles like family and friends; pay off debts and get into a 401(k); keep learning new skills; manage your own money and get an "ace in the hole"--a tiny business of your own. Invest in Yourself offers a myriad of tips for squeezing the most out of a dollar. It tells you how to negotiate to get the best price on just about anything, including motel rooms and used cars, and gives the lowdown on turning your kids into savers and investors, controlling college bills, cutting home buying costs, and planning for retirement. The book is also a good clearinghouse for Web sites, helpful phone numbers, and information about newsletters like Loose Change and The Cheapskate Monthly.

The authors know first hand how to live a simple life and reduce expenses. Eisenson and Castleman left behind the big city and started a pro-consumer newsletter in a rented dream home in the country. They very rarely go to stores, preferring yard sales and thrift shops; they grow much of their own food; and practically everything they buy is used. If it breaks, they fix it. Cowriter Gerri Detweiler chucked her executive post with a large credit-education organization and made it as a writer and consultant. If you're thinking of making a similar move, this book might be a good investment. It's also for anyone looking for some ways to stay on a tight budget or for people just joining the working world.--Dan Ring ... Read more

Reviews (14)

small technics make big differences
It only took me 30 seconds to buy the book after I scan the titles of the chapters in a fantasitic bookstore in middle Taiwan...all matter to me even if I am a Taiwanese who's so different from those who are supposed to read it.The subject is so universal that,after wandering among the shelves for hours with limited budgets, I decided to take it. The book provides us with so many tips and give us so many substantial thoughts and agendas that a man has to take to make himself rich, materially and spiritually. I am so amazed that,even books about the same subjects in the books are countless,this is a real DIFFERENT book which is written on basis of the authurs' financial expertise and their ideas of helping people, withour meaningless preach and crabbs. This book is a real life bible. I am so glad that I have it.

Excellent, practical guide to getting the most out of life.
Most financial books ignore other areas of your life that help determine if you're truly happy or not, like family, where you live, etc. This book helps you to sort out what is really important, while giving practical advice on how to make the most out of the money you earn. I think it's an excellent book for anyone who wants more time with their family, more out of their job and the money they make; or for those people who want to get out of the rat race.

Simple but pragmatic
This book will show you how to make the most of your money. It's an easy read, simple and packed with information.Invest in yourself and buy this book. It's excellent.

Very inspiring read regarding money, work and life.
Need help on the job, at home, and with your finances? Then this book is for you. The book is a comprehensive guide for saving money and becoming a better person in the process. The book offers six secrets like determining what you want in a career, investing in intangibles like family and friends; paying off debts and getting into a 401(k); keep learning new skills; managing your own money and owning a business of your own. The book goes on to tell you how to negotiate to get the best price on just about anything, including motel rooms and used cars, and gives the lowdown on turning your kids into savers and investors, controlling college bills, cutting home buying costs and planning for retirement. This book will show you the way to make a difference in the way you approach money, work and life in general. In relation to life and financing I found this entire reading very inspiring. The book provides the only road map you'll ever need. Enjoy it.

FinancialNeeds.com

Relax and Enjoy
This is a book that tells me to relax in my life, but actively seek investment (and return) on other areas of one's life. Good to read. ... Read more

Book Description

THE FIRST FINANCIAL GUIDE TAILORED EXCLUSIVELY TO LESBIAN AND GAY COUPLES ON HOW TO PROTECT THEIR ASSETS WHEN LAWS FAIL

Lesbian and gay couples can achieve solid, long-term financial security--but they need to arm themselves with foresight, awareness, and facts. That's what this book is all about. Now, drawing on more than twenty years' experience as a financial adviser to lesbian and gay couples, Harold L. Lustig has written the definitive financial guide for you and your partner.

Through Lustig's four easy-to-follow steps to economic security--PLAN, PLAN, PLAN; PROTECT WHAT'S YOURS; THINK COMMUNITY; USE NON-CONVENTIONAL WISDOM AND TAKE ACTION--this invaluable book gives you workable financial strategies and up-to-date information on

- Estate planning--why it's especially vital for you and your loved one
- Tax advantages available to you--and not to legally recognized couples
- Reducing your tax load through charitable contributions and shifting assets
- A domestic partner agreement--why it is critical to your financial well-being
- Avoiding the "gay penalty" on long-term health care and retirement plans
- Tips for funding a college education--without dropping into the red
- Reentering the job market when you are HIV positive
- Buying and fine-tuning disability insurance
- The facts about joint ownership
And much more!

Despite unfavorable laws, you can protect your assets, provide for retirement, avoid discriminatory penalties, and ensure that you and your partner enjoy and share what you've earned together. From building and transferring wealth with life insurance to creating documents that protect you when marital laws do not, this clear, smart, practical guide provides the essential financial information that every lesbian and gay couple needs and deserves.
... Read more

Reviews (5)

proceed with caution! (not for the novice)
This is a well written and easy to understand book that provides some much needed advice for lesbian and gay couples. That being said, the author's advice is not without bias (in favor, for example, of using insurance as an investment vehicle), so readers are advised to compare these recommendations to those of other experts with differing opinions. For myself, I agree with those who look with a jaundice eye at whole or universal life insurance as a planning or savings tool. (Term life is usually best and cheapest: consider the advice of Suze Orman, for example; or the excellent and readable "Personal Finances for Dummies" book by Eric Tyson.) Also, the book's warning that under New York law a lesbian or gay partner is not an "insurable interest" seems incorrect or perhaps out of date: my partner and I had no trouble getting life insurance naming one another as beneficiary. And some of the more complex strategies that involve transferring title to assets don't include a complete set of their disadvantages. On balance, I'd urge anyone reading this book to both (1) read it carefully and (2) assess the advice for your personal situation while comparing approaches from other advisors (like Orman and Tyson).

Still, any book that gets gays and lesbians to focus on savings and legal strategies to protect our relationships is a needed one, and this one provides a helpful focus on issues that are specific to our community.

Answered Questions I didn't even know to ask...
My partner and I just bought a house, combined our checking account, and were unaware of the problems we could be facing. While we knew we needed rights of survivorship and wills, we didn't think of the tax issues, trusts, and the plethora of other issues addressed so clearly and to the point in this book. If you are queer or straight and committed but not married, this book is a goldmine of information!

A much needed guide thru the paperwork maze
Lustig's book is a must-read for any gay or lesbian couple, as it tackles such sticky wickets as purchasing life insurance when one has serious medical problems, viaticals, and the hurdles of retirement plan assets when a partner with an employer-funded plan dies. It's easy to read with "frequently asked questions" and gives step-by-step instructions for approaching insurance companies, mortgage brokers and traditional bankers. If you think the world of financial responsibility is difficult to navigate with laws and mores directed at traditional heterosexual couples - imagine the nightmare it can be for those who are discriminated against, and for whom there is no protection. The book isn't a long exercise in financial planning - it's an explanation of fundamentals with sound advice and tips. Very worthwhile reading for just about anybody.

The only personal finance book a gay family needs.
At long last, money advice we can actually use! Four Steps is the only personal finance book a gay family needs.

Great book.
Harold Lustig gives us the financial strategies we need to over come the many ways lesbian and gay couples are unfairly treated under the laws. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A necessary reference guide.
How would you hendle the death of a loved one? For me, until I read this book, I wouldn't have had a clue! I think this book makes sense for anyone who is going through the financial transition that death brings to survivors but also to anyone who wants to be prepared for the event. Think about it...we will all eventually have to face this, why not be prepared? This book covers more details than I would have thought of, and I work in the financial industry. I think a major plus to this book is that is gives definitions, addresses, phone numbers, web addresses, etc... of all the things and places you will need to know about. I would highly recommed this publication.

A necessary Guide for survivors .
If your loved dies suddenly or you know its coming this is the essential book to read about handing the situation.

A compact guide on what to do when and how. It brings together in one easy to read and understand format the information you will need immediately after a death and later on.

This is a book to have on hand as you would have a dictionary.

When my mother died I found it was dificult to get the information I needed. Laywers can be very expensive. If I had this book it would have saved my time and money.

Practical
Although the book origionally seemed small for the price I discovered that it had a lot of information. It covered everything from how to handle my husband's car lease to estate processing and identity theft. It was also well written and had a easy to follow format. ... Read more

Book Description

Your Complete Guide to Money Happiness, offers a profusion ofgenuine insights that will become more valuable with time.In aneasy-to-read, engaging and straight-forward style, Henry S.Brockdelivers a compelling presentation of the original and time-testedformula for financial success and security.Unlike the usual financialplanning manual which merely focuses on strategies and tactics, MoneyHappiness first lays the enduring foundation of correct principlesagainst which any strategy or tactic may be measured.Within thisframework, Brock reveals with remarkable clarity why so many financialself-help books fall short of helping you find lasting solutions tofinancial challenges.By examining those principles that workedyesteryear, today, and that will work in the years of economiccommotion ahead, you will discover how to discern sense from nonsense,fundamentals from fads, and facts from fiction as promoted in thefinancial press.These principles will be just as applicable to theeconomy in the year 2025 as they are today.As a benchmark, theseprinciples are than applied as Money Happiness discusses over 300financial strategies and tactics.Contemporary issues are discussed soyou know how to survive and prosper within the modern maze ofgovernment economic and tax policies, investment markets, complexfinancial products, and increasing globalization.Through this uniquesynthesis of principles, strategies and tactics, you will gain thepower and skills to simplify your life and improve your Money Happinessbeyond what you ever dreamed possible.Practical strategies, proventechniques, trusted wisdom.Unsurpassed - no other money managementbook comes close. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Mostly solid advice.
Brock entertains the long-standing notion that hard work and prudent planning lead to eventual success. As a person who considers himself to be non-religious, and a strong advocate that religion is not a necessity to build character and long-term happiness, I never-the-less thoroughly enjoyed reading about his viewpoints on fundamental principles for living.

The one caution that I would offer to readers, is they take his advice on student loans and never-ending abundance, with a grain of salt. Yes, it is advisable to reduce student loans to a minimum. However, taking out a substantial amount of student loans is not necessarily a bad idea. For most individuals (not those in the authors income bracket, or most of the clients that he deals with), it is extremely hard to get through a doctorate program (let alone a bachelor's program at a first tier school), without doing so. In this case, the value of taking out student loans and acquiring further education clearly outweighs the ability to choose a risk-seeking career. After all, it is an extremely small percentage of people who are successful as an entrepreneur, as opposed to those who seek a more stable career, requiring higher education. I have had experience in both and can vouch for the fact that in specific industries, such as financial services, you need to know key people, to be successful. No matter how much the industry tries to reject this notion, it is fact.

To address the second issue, it is fundamentally obvious that the earth's resources are limited, a view that Brock admittedly looks over. Responsibility necessitates conservation.

The book for the most part is fantastic; however, it does offer an extremely Republican viewpoint.

From one Finacial Advisor about another
This is the most complete book on personal financial management ever published, it is just that simple!

There is only one caution I would set forth, successful individuals don't become successful without consulting experts, this book does not replace the guidence an advisor provides but, it is a great starting point for those looking to enhance their knowledge base. I have been known to recommend this book quite frequently to my own clients.

Keep in mind, you don't know what you don't know until someone tells you something you don't know.

I Agree -- A Must Read
Yes, I agree -- this is a "must read" book. It covers many aspects of finance, but realizes that the main aspect is psychological. No, it is not a psychology treatise, but it helps point in the right directions. The author has been in the same position that many of his readers are. Take a look at it. You can probably find a copy at your local library or via inter-library loan.

A must read for those who want financial stability
Brock's book has had an amazing affect on my finances. I've learned how to better budget my money and many investment tips. It ties in morals to the spending of money which adds a definite twist. It goes into great depth yet is spelled out so that anyone can understand.

One of two books EVERYONE needs to read for $$$ success.
Before reading "Money Happiness" first read "The Millionaire Next Door" to help you better understand what a millionaire looks like and what actions help you become rich. Then, read "Money Happiness" and refer to it constantly. Henry Brock shows tried and true methods for success in financial planning, estate planning, and goal setting. His techniques are proven. There are no flimsy gimmicks that many unqualified authors are proposing today. This man knows his stuff. His discussion on Variable Life Insurance vs. mutual funds is something that everyone should know. His asset allocation chapter shows that you don't have to be a stock picker to be successful. THIS MAY BE ONE OF THE BEST OVERALL FINANCIAL BOOKS AVAILABLE. IT IS MORE USEFUL THAN A FINANCIAL DEGREE, BECAUSE YOU CAN PUT IT IMMEDIATELY INTO ACTION! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This Book Is Amazing!
This book has saved me from making a huge mistake! I was about to go out and take a second job to get myslef out of debt, but using the principles in Neil's book, I have already found (saved) hundred's of dollars that I didn't know I was losing every single week! I estimate that I will keep (for that debt payoff) an extra $5,200.00-$7,800.00 this year alone! And, best of all, this is without spending one extra minute outside my home and away from my children! Thank God for this book! Buy it, read it, share it!

Shrewd for the right reasons
Never would I have expected when The Shrewd Christian was recommended for immediate read that it would be such an engaging, "entertaining", encouraging and enlightening book about--of all things, finances!! I rarely read anything in one sitting, but Neil Atkinson kept my attention--through his own story, through a writing style that almost jumped off the page, through his knowledge as well as his passion for his subject. I'm excited about a book which focuses on helping the Christian middle class (plus anyone who elects to read this informative threatise) attain financial freedom--not so we can "have" more but so that we might "be" more about what matters--"kingdom work and relationships". Although I'm not sure if my husband and I can "live well on less than half of the money we make", Neil and his wife Margie's goal, I was certainly challenged to look at how we do live. Thankfully Neil didn't just challenge me, he also gave many, many helpful and practical ways to become "truly wealthy". Bravo to NA and Waterbrook for bringing a radically passionate financial prospective to my attention. ... Read more

Book Description

SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE STEPS YOU CAN TAKETO PROTECT WHAT’S YOURS

By the time you’re named as a defendant in a lawsuit or divorce proceeding, it may be too late to protect your assets. The time to shield the hard-won fruits of your labor is now! Fortunately, protecting your assets can be much easier and far less expensive than you think. In this complete, practical, and easy-to-follow guide, leading tax and estate planning attorney and bestselling author Martin Shenkman presents the steps you can and should take to protect your home, your savings, and other assets from creditors, litigants, and divorce.

Shenkman explains the essential concepts of protecting what you own from malpractice claims, lawsuits, and divorce. This book offers step-by-step guidance in determining which asset-protection strategies and techniques are right for you. You’ll learn numerous legal and effective methods you can use to:

• Protect your personal assets from business and professional claims
• Protect your assets and your heirs’ assets from divorce
• Minimize your risk of lawsuits and other claims against your assets
• Create limited partnerships and LLCs to protect your assets
• Make your home-based business judgment-proof
• Use domestic trusts to protect against lawsuits
• Secure real estate and stock holdings against lawsuits

Book Description

Tens of thousands of women are widowed each year. Combining compassion and encouragement along with practical psychological and financial insights, On Your Own offers all women who have lost a spouse the guidance they need for a successful recovery from one of life's biggest traumas.

To support those facing such a major life transition, a certified financial planner and psychologist have teamed up to share their professional strategies. Both authors have lost loved ones in their lives, and have determined to use their experiences to ease the journey for others.

Giving women mastery over the interdependent issues relating to emotional health and financial well-being, On Your Own can help almost any widow heal her grief and carry on with her life. The authors offer dramatic, true-to-life insights as they share stories, attitudes and histories from four composite profiles of widows at different ages and stages of life. Sensitive yet practical advice is enhanced by checklists to help women move forward out of the grieving process. From mourning through recovery, the authors address:

* making wise moves right from the beginning
* incorporating online support and resources into both the financial and emotional recovery processancial
* identifying one's attitude toward finances, based on prior life experiences
* seeking out knowledgeable, trustworthy and supportive counselors, advisors, attorneys and other professionals
* developing a budget and plan for addressing both immediate and future financial needs ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Widow's Advisor
As a financial planner specializing in Wealth Preservation Planning, one aspect of my practice is providing life insurance, when appropriate. As a result, part of my job involves the delivery of death claim checks to widows. Unfortunately, many of them have never had the opportunity to deal with family finances or budgeting - but are suddenly thrown into a situation where they must assume that responsibility. It comes at a time of great instability and disruption.

"On Your Own" by Alexandra Armstrong and Mary R. Donahue deals sensitively with both the emotional and financial issues of widowhood, and provides guidance for both - with compassion and authoritative wisdom. It provides comfort and knowledge in a clever structure which allows the reader to review applications of each chapter's information in one of several optional formats, based upon her individual set of circumstances (young with children, elderly, etc.)

I am so impressed with the book that I give it to each of the beneficiaries to whom I deliver a death claim check. The thank you notes I have received have provided a wonderful reward for sharing this valuable information.

A widow's best guide
I purchased this book five years ago from Ms. Armstrong at a NAIC Congress in Florida. At the time I purchased it as a reference for my investment club's library. With 21 women in the M & D Investment Club I figured someone would need it sometime. I have skimmed it occasionally through the years but when I recently become widowed it was the first book I brought out. Ms. Armstrong has literally saved me much time and grief in trying to figure out what to do next. There is no time of greater confusion and despair than at the sudden and unexpected loss of a beloved spouse. When I can read this book gives me something to do or think about. The suggestions for organization are excellent and will allow me to make informed descisions instead of emotional decisions. While I did not expect to be the recipient of her wisdom I am grateful for it. I highly recommend it for all women, married, single, divorced or involved in any relationship that has financial involvement. We can't afford to not know how to best proceed with our financial future.