Book Description

With Big Bucks! bestselling authors Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles unlock the secrets of making serious money for both you and your company. Through a series of easy-to-follow steps and powerful strategies, Blanchard and Bowles show how anyone can create lasting wealth. By focusing on concepts like commitment, intensity, purpose, and even fun, the authors have crafted a totally new--and irresistible--paradigm for unlimited success.

Written in the parable style of their previous books, Raving Fans and Gung Ho!., which were Business Week, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal business bestsellers, Big Bucks! introduces Len, who doesn't just want more money--he wants to be a millionaire. Under the direction and guidance of a group of mentors, Len must overcome three challenges on his way to attaining more wealth than he ever dreamed possible. Len learns that these three tests can be undertaken by any individual or organization in the pusuit of big bucks. And he also sees that while making big money, he can accomplish even more valuable achievements by being generous with his time, talents, and prosperity.

Packed with practical advice, Big Bucks! is a must-read for any individual or business professional seeking wealth. It's destined to become one of the major money books in the twenty-first century.

Reviews (15)

Big Bucks Here I Come!
Back in January a reviewer of Big Bucks! convinced me I wasn't going to get on Do You Want To Be A Millionaire with Regis so I decided to follow his advice and read Big Bucks! Having read it I was convinced the authors, who apparently did their research over a number of years with The Young President's Organization which seems to be a club for millionaires, knew their stuff.

The first and most important lesson they say is that you can't make big money unless you're having fun. It's the old do what you love advice, but for the first time I now understand what this means. And I know why it works: If you enjoy your work you have the energy needed to be a huge success. Rather than working hard the authors say money makers enjoy their work so much that they're playing hard. I always thought I was in a dead end job. Now I understand the job wasn't dead end. I was! I didn't like it much and I didn't have the energy. I love cars though, so I took a chance and quit for an automotive related job. And at less money. But within three months I'd got two raises and I'm already making more than I was. All because I'm giving the job 12 hours of effort every eight hour shift, rather than the two I gave the other job. Best of all the eight hours passes like two and it used to seem like 12. I'm not a millionaire yet, but if this keeps up who knows I may make it. Even if I don't I'm a way happier than I was, so whoever the millionaire is who wrote the January third review, thanks. Thanks a million I guess.

A quickly read business parable
This is another book in the tradition of The One Minute Manager (co-authored by Blanchard): A quickly read business parable about a young man on a quest. This one is on the always interesting subject of how to get rich, which is quite simple (not easy, mind you, but simple) according to the authors of Gung Ho! Turn On the People in Any Organization and Raving Fans - A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service: First of all make sure you have fun. If you don't there is no way that you can create the intensity and work the long hours that are necessary in order to be really successful. This is the starting point of the book, which makes a lot of sense and even manages to keep a good perspective on ethics and meaning at the same time. Highly recommended!

Enjoy the process or do something else...
I received this book along with three others for free upon joining a real estate investors group. Thus, I was not expecting too much from the volume. I also was blissfully ignorant of the authors and their prior successful works, and have not read the other two volumes in this motivational trilogy.

As such, I was pleasantly surprised by the narrative and novel style. The use of the protagonist "Len" is quite refreshing and works extremely well. His visits to the "three Wise Men/Woman" are amusing. The three lessons learned are absolute truths in the working world and totally reinforced my personal belief that having fun while making money is essential. If you love what you do you will be great at it.

I highly recommend this book to everyone with a open mind. It is a quick read (about a weekend ought to do it) and if read and followed, is sure to enrich your life both spiritually and financially.

About my only criticism is that it is somewhat derivative of other motivational types such as Lou Tice (reticular activating systems); Ivan Meisner (givers gain);and the grandaddy of them all: Napoleon Hill (Think and Grow Rich).

Nothing earth-shattering, but it makes sense!
In RAVING FANS, authors Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Knowles
concentrated on the importance of delighting customers . . . in GUNG
HO!, they focused on how companies could become the "employer of
choice" and attract the best employees . . . I liked both those
books and thus looked forward to listening to the taped version of
BIG BUCKS! . . . this third book promised me in its subtitle "How
to Make Serious Money for Both You and Your Company," something
that could be done by focussing my time and energy.

Like other works by Blanchard and Knowles, the points are
presented in a parable . . . here, we're introduced to a man struggling
to make ends meet . . . he goes on a journey to discover the secret
to becoming rich and meets three wise (and successful) people
who present simple truths that can be applied to virtually any
situation.

I liked the above fact; i.e., that when listening, I found myself
thinking that this stuff makes sense--and I should and could

apply it to my situation . . . there's nothing overly earth-shattering,
yet I should add that it got me thinking . . . and it made sense.

Also making sense was the conclusion, in which the authors
reviewed the simple tests that should have been learned from
either reading or listening:

The test of joy . . . you can't make money unless you're having fun.

The test of purpose . . .you can't make money unless making money
is more important than having fun.

The test of creativity . . . incomes, less expenses = profit.

And, lastly, there's perpetual prosperity . . . which comes to those
who help others.

Ranks # 3 in the list
This book is meant to be the third leg of a three-legged stool, the other two legs being Gung Ho! and Raving Fans by the same authors. After taking care of people who work for the organization, who in turn take care of customer delight, this book now aims at making big money both for the employee and the company. Logically this is a good sequence. The style is the same, powerful concepts explained through a parable. In Big Bucks our hero is Len who is a simple person with an ambition to make big money.

Expectations at the beginning of the book makes one align Len with the Area Manager (Raving Fans) or with Andy (Gung Ho!). This comparison may let you down. I should confess that Big Bucks is not a story as powerful as Gung Ho! where Andy Longclaw with the squirrels, the beavers and the geese saves Walton Works # 2. Andy still lives in our hearts. In Raving Fans, it is sheer customer delight straight from first principles applied with absolute clarity and focus, and a feeling of joy that recharges anyone to see the customer in a new perspective. Big Bucks lags behind these two great books in creating such an impact.

The third leg needs a bit of reinforcement. May be I will read the book again when I really decide to go after big money. Till then, Gung Ho! friends. ... Read more

Book Description

Making, keeping, and enjoying money isn’t just about investments, salaries, inheritances, or dividends, according to Deborah Price. It’s also about the games people play around money and their character type in relation to it. In Money Magic, Price shows readers how to stop making fear-based money choices and how to transform their relationship with money to obtain the wealth they desire. The book is structured around eight "types": the Innocent (the ostrich approach); the Victim (blaming circumstances); the Warrior (conquering money); the Martyr (always rescuing someone); the Fool (gambler looking for a windfall); the Creator/Artist (regarding money as evil); the Tyrant (controlling through money); and the Magician (benefiting spiritually and financially from money). The Magician is the book’s ideal, and Price offers exercises to help readers attain it. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Personal and Professional Applications Make this a Must Read
Money Magic is a must read for people interested in thinking differently about the personal and professional energy of money. I read this book for my own personal development a couple of months ago, and found it insightful, simple and immediately applicable to both my personal financial life and my work. I have directed a local community service for nearly 11 years, often marveling at how resources flow into the association just when we need them. I would wonder, "WOW, how did that just happen?" While Money Magic has been written as a resource for understanding one's own relationship with money and the energy of money, after reading Money Magic, I have now begun to look at how the collective belief systems of our Board volunteers and staff influence our perceptions of and perspectives on the financial resources we draw to our agency to help us fulfill our Mission. It is not often that I come across nonfiction books that so effectvely bridge the personal and the professional with great tools, useful exercises and thought provoking insight.

A wonderfully written book.
This thought provoking book is a real find. If you're willing to look at your habitual behaviors surrounding money and do the exercises, especially when you think "This doesn't apply to me", this book is guaranteed to illuminate hidden patterns allowing change to take place.

The Author is Great
I recently attended a seminar conducted by Deborah Price and bought two of her books during the course of it. I haven't had a chance yet to read the books, but wanted to pass on that she's a great speaker with a really great attitude toward not only money, but life. She shared with us that she's been through it all and has come out on top financially. She started poor, but has turned that around and it all has to do with having the right attitude. She was great at pointing out really possitive and energetic ways of looking at our situations and using them to our advantage. I highly recommend any advice she gives, whether written or presented orally.

The only book on money you need to read
I have read many books on physcological associations with money, but until reading "Money Magic" found little that helped me with my negative associations to money. Just writing my money biography helped me gain tremendous insight. We must shift our conscienceness to procure positive results. I HIGHLY reccomend this book to anyone who wants to acheive monumental change in order to create a fantastic and prosperous reality.

Forget Suze Orman - Deborah Price Has It Right On The Money!
Deborah Price's Money Magic is an unusually potent self-help book. In an afternoon with Deborah's little book of wisdom and insight, I realized why money has eluded me all of my life despite my qualifications, abilities, talent and drive. You HAVE to read this book if it is the only book you read in the next 5 years! Deborah's wisdom is guaranteed to stay with you for days, weeks, months and years to come... ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Gives good, basic understanding of unclaimed property
I am a paralegal and this book gives a good, basic understanding of various state laws as well as requirements for finders.You can glean ideas from this book to start your own business, if you so desire.

A good introduction and survey of unclaimed money issues
The text takes you into the subject of unclaimed money in a very simple way.It shows you the origins of unclaimed money and some of the mechanics of how it is handled.You are given a general guide of how to go about tracking through this evident mess of uncorrelated data.He also tells you that some of the government agencies appear to rely on few citizens actually finding money, and most of the unclaimed money has actually been spent by states.There is also a overview of the business of returning money to owners,and earning a profit while doing it. The level is all introductory.Advanced techniques and logic are mentioned, but not extensively gone into.It is an easy, comfortable and easy to read and remember format. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As in their first book, The Beardstown Ladies' Common-Sense Investment Guide, this lively group of ladies manages to explain in terms any layperson can understand how they have managed to outperform professional money managers since 1983 and build theirretirement portfolios to enviable proportions.Folksy, funny, and filled with native money wisdom. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not as great as it sounds
The book offers basic information on how to invest and save money, but, that's all it does. The book is more appropriate for someone at a later stage of their life, and for someone who has no idea how one should save orinvest money. If you already know the basic information about investing,then this book is not for you.

A Primer on Common Sense Investments and Financial Info
If ever there were a standard primer for financial information, my vote would be this book.What a wonderful gift this book would make for a newly married couple, or even a daughter who has just graduated high school or college.A son, too for that matter!As someone who has never had much extra money, I just recently graduated from college and am now pursuing full time employment, I know that when I begin bringing in that second income, that I will want to have some education on what to do with it. I bought this book for that purpose. It is a basic information book that provides vital facts and figures to anyone needing advice in regards to insurance, 401K, stocks, bonds, retirement and ect. For someone who has just a limited knowledge of these topics, this book will be a Godsend.A child could read and understand the concepts presented in this book. It gives resources for more information as well.Pick up this book and you will expand your financial horizons!The book is written in a very casual, witty and motherly type fashion. It will make you warm and fuzzy! And perhaps even fatten your wallet ... Read more

Book Description

Ron Blue challenges and encourages the reader to live generously by addressing such topics as -- it's better to give than to receive, teaching children to give, how to give away money wisely and strategically, and how to make a will. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Maximize your effectiveness and joy in giving
This book is for those who want to give more and maximize their effectiveness and joy in giving. Blue points out in his book that we have endless opportunities to give of our resources to further God's work here on earth and that we need to give strategically to make our giving as effective as possible. He discusses both the why and the how of giving. He states that we need to have a long term giving plan as part of our overall financial plan. This book showed me how my wife and I could give much more now and in the future with a few minor adjustments in our family budget. Blue challenged me to set a cap on lifestyle at a reasonable level and use the excess income to save, invest and give away. It helped me work through all the practical questions of how much to spend, how much to save and invest and how much to give. Ron Blue states that financial freedom is not found in building up net worth but rather is, "the willingness to be generous with what you have."

A great guide for giving and tithing
I found Mr. Blue's advice to be very helpful in making a plan for giving that would be pleasing to God. Lots of practical advice. If you are ready to get serious about your giving and tithing, you must read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

There’s no question: The cost of college continues to soar, even when the rest of the economy stagnates, and this reality is not likely to change any time soon. Fortunately, everyone, including you, the various governments (federal and state), and the colleges themselves, are in on this secret, so everyone can plan and plot, well in advance of that eventual first day of your child’s freshman year, ways to get that child there, and ways to help you pay the bills when they happen. Consider this book to be your accomplice.

529 & Other College Savings Plans For Dummies is simply a way to find a reasonable solution to a seemingly unreasonable problem: saving for future college costs in the sanest, least stressful way possible for you. In keeping with the theme of stress reduction, you can use this book in a variety of ways:

• As a reference: It’s all here: the ins, the outs, the do’s, and the don’ts. The world of college savings is one of very specific rules, and they’re here, in all their glory, and they’re all explained.
• As an advisor: It’s a case of the very good savings techniques, the merely okay savings techniques, and the truly ugly techniques (which you really want to avoid), and this book highlights them all.
• As a little light reading: Amazingly enough, the topic of money can be mildly amusing, and college savings is no exception. Read this with an eye towards the absurd, and you won’t go far wrong.

This down-to-earth book is designed to explain the strategies that are out there to help you save, save, save. There’s no doubt that the bill will be large; there’s also no question that, with planning, strategy, and purpose, you can achieve your goal. To help you get there, this book covers all these vital topics, and more:

• Evaluating all your resources
• Understanding the basics of Section 529 plans
• Working around the 529 shortcomings
• Contributing to Coverdell accounts
• Choosing savings bonds that work
• Looking at your investment options
• Searching for scholarships, fellowships, and grants
• Tapping into your Roth IRA
• Financial Aid 101

In this one-size-fits-all world, the powers that be have recognized that all people don’t save money the same way. Some save more, some save less, some can live with risk, and others can’t tolerate any risk. Clearly, no two are alike, but you’re all savers, either present or potential. Numerous options exist that make saving possible and desirable for everyone. 529 & Other College Savings Plans For Dummies is here to tell you that it is possible to understand the costs associated with college, both right now and in the future, and then find ways to pay for those costs. ... Read more

Book Description

Teaches you the art of being in the right place at the right time, with the right idea and the right attitude. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Excellent.
This refers to the audio cassette version. I really enjoyed this little book. I have read dozens of books on self help, manifesting, New Thought, sprirituality, quantum physics, etc (you know what I mean) but this one pulls everything together. It is simply-stated, enlightening, inspirational, and fun! Wilde reads it with enthusiasm and a charming accent. This is my first Wilde book but I plan to read or listen to all the others.

I recommend this on audio
Treat yourself to listening to this during your commutes and I guarantee, your attitude toward money will increase in the positive and you WILL see an increase in cash flow!

The scriptures of prosperity
In this valuable little book, Wilde reveals the psychological aspects of the money game, as well as the deeper metaphysical secrets of prosperity. Understanding the flow of money in our lives is one of the great spiritual lessons, as is a thorough understanding of the dynamics of love and interpersonal relationships. Many of the great teachers of mankind have taught that abundance is spiritual - that it is one's feelings and the power of one's thought that create wealth, and Wilde casts new light on these ideas in his witty and engaging style as he discusses the ten laws of abundance. He refers to the works of other great writers like John Randolph Price, Catherine Ponder, Ernest Holmes and Deepak Chopra and has some very interesting views of how manifestation takes place by the power of thought out of the quantum possibility into our three-dimensional reality. Ultimately, it's all about energy and how to cultivate a prosperity consciousness. Wilde is a brilliant writer and this work of his is no exception. As he says: "There's no reason why you can't be very rich and still be an extremely spiritual and wonderfully generous person." I highly recommend this excellent guide to bring those streams of plenty into your life. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

If you want more Wilde wisdom on the Hurry-Up
You could seriously get away without having to read his larger book on money, The Trick To Having Money Is Having Some, and come away from reading this small one, supercharged with many, many improved ways of looking at money and the consciousness of wealth. (but I have to read all of his books, i love this guy's books). I feel a need to re-read this particular Wilde masterpiece to remind myself that:
1. .. the freedom I give myself by knowing that my Divine-ness is so beyond money or attachments IS the very freedom to just play with my creativity and make lots of money!
2. .. how ego interferes with money
3. .. of the point that the first reviewer mentioned: Give people what they want, and put your own LIGHT into it,
4. I can't be insecure
(Page 95: "if you are solid and contained and secure, it helps them feel more solid, so they transfer their cash more readily")

This has to be part of your "prosperity-consciousness" collection! (Even though this would be very helpful even without his "Trick To Having Money.." book, I wanted to add before leaving that I'd really recommend reading that one too. There's too much to miss there.)

Best money book ever!
The most helpful book I've ever read! Wilde's main point (which illuminated me like the proverbial lightbulb going off) is that the only way to earn money is to provide a service or product that OTHER PEOPLE need or want. It's not about what I need or want -- it's about what other people need or want! This is a revolutionary idea in a time when all we hear is "me, me, me" -- what will make ME happy? And the paradox is that by focusing on others' wants and needs, we make more money than we do when we're selfish and greedy. Wilde gives useful examples of people who imbue everything they do (whether providing a service or product) with love and respect for others. One shopkeeper overflows with love for his products and customers, and people flock to his store. Another shopkeeper is greedy and self-centered, and people avoid his store. One secretary loves the people she works for; another seethes with hatred. Which one will get a raise? Basically, the more you love, the more you earn. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This Book Needs to be Reprinted
For the middle class - getting sick in your old age forces you into extremme state of humiliation. For years you worked to secure a retirement for yourself and your spouse - and than the cost of medical care - the parts that MEDICARE does not cover leaves you in a desparate situation. The medical costs are more than you can bear - you are responsible for your medical, skilled nursing, home care, ambulance service, prescription drugs etc. Paying these bills in a long term illness - impoverishes the spouse who is left after the debilitating illness takes the sick one's life. I have no objection that saved wealth would not be transferred to one's descendants - but a system has to be put into place that protects the spouse that remains alive. Mr. Armond Budish in this fine book - provides one legal and moral techniques to allow one the best opportunity to save a reasonable portion of one's wealth so that the surviving spouse does not end up totally destitute. in most cases the surviving spouse's health has taken a precarious toll in taking care of the sick seeing him or she waste away - and seeing the all-powerful state force one to spend one's resources down. For an individual who has worked and saved all his/her life refused welfare of any kind over those forty productive work years - to be treated so disdainlly by a cold bureacracy makes one wonder about the priorities or lack thereof in establishing a safety net for our senior citizens. If the money is taken by the state upon the death of the second spouse - that's fine. Children of hard working middle class citizens like myself should not necessarily be entitled to the redistribution of wwealth - but allow for and provide our seniors their share of the sun. ... Read more

Book Description

Financial strategies that help couples start off on the right foot

Couples today face a far more complex financial environment than their parents could have imagined. The Young Couple's Guide to Growing Rich Together addresses issues unique to those just starting out--from limited incomes and college debt to home purchases, new babies, and more--and provides the knowledge and tactics necessary for juggling these financial responsibilities while also working on the nonfinancial aspects of a still-developing relationship.

Featuring strategies that are both sensible and realistic, this financial planning guide explains how to tackle the smaller issues before they grow to take on a life of their own.

Sample topics include:

• Techniques for combining personal budgets
• Determining whether a prenuptial agreement is appropriate
• How to address financial "differences of opinion"

Reviews (2)

A must have for newlyweds!
As a newlywed couple, my husband and I were confused about how to get the best financial advice to plan for our future. When I started reading this book I couldn't put it down! It's written in an easy-to-read way and in layman's terms. It's not some boring financial book that will put you to sleep. It was very informative and gave very complete and practical advice on planning for the future. This book provides necessary advice for anyone, and is a must read for young couples or singles.

Great book on getting your finances together!
I think this book does a great job of walking you through the steps to get your finances together - and it's not boring like so many other finance books. Part of the book is following a young couple in their planning process which I think makes it easier to understand how the "to do's" are applied in everyday life (and makes it more entertaining!). My husband and I were married just over 2 years ago and we're expecting our first child soon, so this book definitely applies to us! I would highly recommend this book to anyone (regardless of age) who is trying to get on the right track with their finances! ... Read more

Book Description

Are you making a living? Or as Joe DOminguez puts it, are you making a dying? This unlikely hero of the conscious living movement was born in Harlem and went on to a successful career on Wall Street, retiring at age 30. How he did it - and how anyone can do it - made his first book, Your Money or Your Life (Penguin, 1999), a publishing phenomenon - seven times on the New York Times how-to bestseller list, an Oprah! feature, articles in the Chicago Tribune, Utne Reader, San Francisco Chronicle, and dozens of others.

Joe Dominguez achieved financial independence not through a get-rich-quick scheme, but through a path of inquiry that led him to question the very nature of our relationship with money. Now the seminal work that led directly to this unique publishing success story is available for the first time to the mass market, with Transforming Your Relationship with Money.

Previously available only through direct mail, here is the complete audio seminar taught by Joe Dominguez himself that defines a new path to financial independence for our times. With 12 compelling lectures and a 120-page workbook, Dominguez brings listeners face to face with the misconceptions and habits that cause us to chase and endlessly spend money. He draws the equation between money and our most precious resource - our life energy - so that a powerful new definition of money emerges. In nine simple steps he teaches how to consciously track, evaluate, and direct the flow of money - without compromising our principles or most cherished dreams.

"The foolish person wants more money, and more of the things money can buy," Dominguez says. "The wise person wants enough money, and more of the things money can't buy: health, happiness, love, and peace of mind." Now the personal money management course that brings this wisdom to consciousness is open to everyone, with Transforming Your Relationship with Money. ... Read more

Book Description

This inspirational true story of one womans journey through bankruptcy and how to bounce back.The book teaches - strategies to create cash - systems to eliminate overspending - how to succeed with Wall Street purchasing blue-chip stocks for as little as $25 a month.Names and numbers to contact companies without a broker. Smart tips on investing.You don't have to be a woman or broke to profit from the simple plan revealed in the book to create personal wealth on a shoestring! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Author's Hard Luck Story is Inspiring!
Joyce "Jadee" Livingston begins this investment how-to guide with a hard luck story that will make you believe you can oversome any obstacles you face in YOUR life.

After telling her tale, she offers reassurances to readers on how they can do what she did (get their financial lives in order and begin to invest).

In a series of short, simple chapters, she gives strategies for saving money, eliminating overspending, "finding" money to invest, and more.

Toward the end of the book, she also shares a weeks' worth of "meditations" designed to help you change the way you think about money and your financial life.

I wanted to give the book more than three stars.The only reason I didn't is I found that some of the chapters were a bit TOO short (and short on detail), and the writing in some sections of the book was choppy--the ideas just didn't flow smoothly.Nonetheless, the book offers some valuable advice, and it's a worthwhile investment of your time and cash.

Reviewer: Linda Painchaud

Learn how to get started in investing!
If you've ever wondered about how to get started in investing, you need to get this book. The author gives you advice on how to work on getting out of debt while you get started in investing. This book will show you how easy it is to buy stock without using the services of a broker! I like how the author includes the names and phone numbers of companies so that you can call and request their prospectus and what companies you can get started with for as little as $10 per month. I also like the author's advice on how to come up with the money to buy your first CD!

Honesty and Humor Empower
This book is a sleeper.My friend told me about it and I ordered from Amazon.com.At first I was interested in how to make small investments in stocks, and to learn more about investing.However, I believe the author used the wrong title.The title should be OVERCOME ANYTHING. The book is filled with amuzing and refreshing honesty of how this author has taken life's lemons and not only made lemonade, but severed it from crystal and sold the recipe! She is an inspiring lady and I'm writing her through herpublisher to see if she will come speak to our group. This book is truly for every beginner invester, and any one who has ever suffered a loss of any kind. The authors daughter was crimally abducted and is still missing. She was involved in a serious accident, while recuperating she could not work, her husband left her took the money, still she does not whine, she overcomes with great faith and inspiration. Please give this book to anyone who has had a financial set back. Thanks for this opportunity to voice my view.Sue Davis Gore ... Read more

Reviews (5)

SIMPLY THE BEST!
If you need a method for managing your money, this is simply the best book out there. It is not preachy and is more focused than most financial books that try to cover personal budgeting in a single chapter: it is too complex a subject to get adequate treatment in a few pages.

This, on the other hand, is a good chunk of book about just the one subject. There are a lot of OK books out there but, really, to do budgeting and financial planning how many do you need? Only one and this is it!

But be warned, the system presented by the author is complex and intensive in that it requires that you really think about where your money is going. It also forces you to set priorities and face the limitations of your financial resources.

If you use the system it will force you to become future and goal oriented and if you have a problem with spending too much and not saving enough, this might just be the cure. Good luck.

Best Book On "Budgeting /Decision-Making" Thus Far
This is a "how-to" book covering the fundamentals of establishing a personal financial system of establishing and attaining financial planning goals. The book successfully sets forth an easy-to-adopt system of "funding" each desired goal. Throughout the book the author illustrates the principles with stories from this own dealing with clients.

If you need assistance with "establishing a budget", "getting out of debt", or "learning to save", then this is the book for you. It is probably most suited for persons age 18-55 who need a system to manage their income, or to handle sudden influxes of wealth.

If you are living beyond your means, or never saving enough, an attitude adjustment book explaining the "why" (such as "The Millionaire Next Door") might be read first, followed by this book, which shows you the "how". You might then follow these readings with others in personal finance and investing, such as John Bogle's excellent primer "Common Sense on Mutual Funds".

My only reservation about this book is that it lacks an explanation of how to implement the "funding" system proposed through Quicken or MS Money financial planning software. If the author is listening, perhaps a future edition can be planned. Until such happens, however, this 1990 book still remains the best "how to" book of "funding" and "budgeting" personal finances out there. I often recommend this book to my younger clients and thereafter see their successes in implementing the system this book teaches.

You must read this book!
I thought I knew everything about personal finanace, because all the other books I'd read said the same things: pay off your debt, save 10% each month, and use willpower when you budget. WRONG! This is the best approach to managing money I've ever seen. It helps you to actually use your money effectively and develop plans based on what you need and WANT. This book does not recycle the same stale, predictable, unrealistic rhetoric of finances - it questions everything we've been told by "Dad and Uncle Ralph" over the years and looks instead at what makes sense right now, today, this minute. The advice in this book is practical and immediately useful. Suddenly, it all makes sense!

Excellent, a refreshing way to get a grip on your finances.
I have read this book over at least five times and I recommend it to anyone who, no matter how much money they make, they always seem to spend a little more. It is a new and unique way to budget, getting at your actual "spending power" and pointing out the obvious fact that most expenses you have don't suddenly come up, so can be easily planned for. His step by step instructions make it easy to incorporate his suggestions on a simple spreadsheet, or on paper. I have read a lot of budgeting books, but this one is very useful to the non disciplined reader. I just wish I had found this book ten years ago!

An invaluable source on how to handle your finances.
After reading this book I'm no longer out-of-control or in debt. I've learned the fine art of budgeting, investing and most importantly, how to fund (not save) for the future. This book is a must-read. I've given away every other book I purchased on personal finance because I don't need any other. The funding concept is so simple I can't believe I never heard of it before. It's changed my way of thinking about managing money and living BELOW my means. The information not only points you in the right direction, it leads you there. ... Read more

Book Description

Every kid knows that things are a lot more expensive today than when their parents grew up. That means they have to earn more than their parents, and this book will show them how.

Earning money should be fun. Make More than Your Parents uncovers the reality that, the more fun they make it, the better they'll be at it. With cool activities, helpful hints, fun graphics and journaling pages, this book provides a step-by-step process that outlines the most effective ways for kids to make their money work for them, to build a life of financial freedom.

Chapters include: Getting Started; Earning Money; Spending Money; Saving Money; Investing Money; and Be Your Own Boss. In addition, helpful resource sections outline job ideas, as well as agencies that can help with career advice and money management. A suggested reading list and glossary help make this book a fun, one-stop sourcebook for all money-management questions. Plus, readers can visit the Make More Web site: www.gotmoola.com.

Reviews (1)

Why didn't I think of this?
Excellent book for children. If you truly want to give your children or grand children a gift that teaches them the value of investing and honing their entrepreneur skills, then this is the book. Not only do your children receive a book, they also are introduced to an interactive website where they can share ideas with other children and create and track their investment portfolios. ... Read more

Book Description

Now completely revised and updated, the Jorgensens' classic guide to increasing wealth provides solid advice on investing, paying taxes, buying insurance, and more...in good times and bad.

You can get rich -- regardless of age, income, or marital status -- by simply following the advice of financial duo Jim and Rich Jorgensen. It's Never Too Late to Get Rich explains how to apply their tried-and-true rules of financial planning in any financial climate, taking you through a process built on nine foolproof, easy-to-follow strategies:

• Pay yourself first

• Don't be a lender

• Kill those credit cards

• Be willing to accept some risk

• Build a rock-solid investment portfolio

• Invest with technology

• Delay your taxes

• Buy adequate life and disability insurance

• Work with a financial planner

Here too are invaluable guidelines on saving and investing in a crashing or soaring stock market, on minimizing taxes, and on preparing for big expenditures like education and retirement. Fully updated with information on new ways to earn interest, the latest financial websites and resources, and much more, It's Never Too Late to Get Rich is your reliable guidebook toward the financial security that you've always dreamed of. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A most needed guide
Sara and I have struggled with financial planning particularly as a result of the recent market turmoil. The Jorgensens' book has served as a much needed guide to managing our money. It emphasizes the basics and is understandable. Unlike other investment books which fail to encompass the whole picture, this book is complete and thorough. We would recommend it to anyone interested in taking a proactive role in managing their money.

This book is a must have!
I read Jim Jorgensen's book and found it very enlightning! It is written so everyone can understand it and can make money by following his nine points to building wealth. The best part about this book is it takes a conservative and sensible view of investing! Anyone can make money by following Jorgensen's advise, no matter how much money you have to invest!!!

This book is a must have!!!
Jim Jorgensen wrote a book that everyone can understand and best of all, can profit from his sound advise. His advise is conservative and makes so much sense. His steps to getting rich are concise and easy to follow. I am working on enriching my wealth with his advise!

Its Never too Late to Get Rich - Great book!
This book was a great tool for me in my financial planning. I found this book to be informative, well written and not restricted to one audience. I am in the early stages of planning my future financial needs and this book was an awesome guide.
This book is a great investment for anyone!

Easy to read and get motivated
I found this book to be an easy read and very easy to understand. I was somewhat intimidated about changing my investing habits, but after reading this book, I felt that I had the tools I needed to move forward and get started. This book motivated me to really look at my investments and make an action plan ... Read more

Download Description

Now bestselling author D. A. Benton shows you how to break through your personal glass ceiling and earn $100,000 a year -- or more! Her can-do plan not only helps you change your whole approach to making money but, more important, helps you make new choices that lead to a happier, more successful life in every way. Learn how to:
-- LEAVE A LOW-PAYING JOB FOR ONE THAT PAYS MUCH MORE.
-- WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER.
-- EXPLORE YOUR HIDDEN PSYCHOLOGICAL BLOCKS -- AND ELIMINATE THEM.
-- MAKE YOUR WAY UP THE CORPORATE LADDER BY IMPROVING BOTH YOUR SKILLS AND YOUR ABILITY TO GAIN RECOGNITION AND REWARDS.
-- EARN $100K BY STRIKING OUT ON YOUR OWN. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The book is now my secret weapon!
I am a real person, and a simple reader. Mentioning the above is simply to claim the authenticity of my review, not some made up or conspired opinion or expression, but a true and genuine review. This is one of the greatest and best books I ever read by far, especially in it's own category. What it's contents cover and how the whole book is put together is a marvelous and tremendous work. I am only about half way through the book and it's definitely my mental coach, encouragement, inspiration, motivation, and secret weapon of all things, already. Some or perhaps many of the ideas in the book are not new inventions, but how the author was able to put everything together in such an excellently constructed order, along with her own professional knowledge, and wisdom surely amazes me. Never before have I heard of D. A. Benton But I have now a great admiration for her and started search all the books she's written. I wouldn't want my competitors at work know about this book but worse is to see all the disgusting reviews written by people who do not have an appreciation for great work. And others being misleaded by those reviews. That's the reason I had to write this. That's how good this book is.

An excellent read - enhance your earning power & happiness!
As an avid reader of D.A. Benton's business books, I must give this latest one high marks once again. It's evident by the way Benton writes that she has been successful in her professional and personal life and wants to share her experience and research with those of us readers who are on and in search of that same path. I found the book realistic, engaging, funny, and full of information that inspires me to pursue my non-traditional path of making more money outside the corporate business world.

I found the chapters on Following Your Heart & Soul along with Earning $100,000 at Home or On Your Own to be very insightful. With so much dread and negativity in the world, it's refreshing to read a book that lends so much hope for complete happiness and success in life.

Cha-ching!
This is the way it is done. Debra Benton did it...so can we.

A Solid Effort!
The dust cover claims this book is worth its weight in gold. Its last chapter, which outlines the 20 steps to earning $100,000 a year, could well make it so. If you buy the book, read the final chapter first. D.A. Benton’s 20 steps are clear and easy to follow. Once you know them, the rest of the book provides excellent supporting information. Benton shows examples of how specific individuals (many of them high-profile celebrities and athletes) used each step to achieve success. This book offers no get-rich-quick schemes. The author advocates a logical, methodical approach to making $100,000 per year. She is so confident that she makes a guarantee: If you put maximum effort into all 20 steps, you will become a member of the $100,000 Club. We [...] recommend this book to anyone interested in making a six-figure income.

not a total waste of money, not a necessary investment
I disagree with some of the other reviewers who said this tape is total trash. It is good for young people just getting into the career market, because it gives practical information to help make sure you are even aiming in the right direction for your goals. It helps give a broad perspective on your career as a whole, not "I just graduated now I have to use this degree somehow." Overall, I say it is a decent book, but I can do without her philosophical digressions at the beginning of the tape about how society tries to make us think money is evil. ... Read more

Book Description

Mary Hunt is a self-avowed reformed spendthrift and credit-card junkie. When she and her family of four found themselves $100,000 in debt and her husband suddenly lost his job, it was time to tighten the belt.

Refusing to sacrifice her quality of life, Ms. Hunt systematically put to work every tip, trick and technique to turn her financial disaster around.

Translating that experience into her immensely popular newsletter, The Cheapskate Monthly, Ms. Hunt now tells you all you need to know to turn your own finances around for good.

Filled with first-person accounts, recipes, formulas, budgeting and recylcing tips, reader response and encouragement, The Best of the Cheapskate Monthly is a necessity for the '90s.
... Read more

Reviews (8)

Best of Cheapskate Monthly
I have to admit, I don't understand the other reviews, but then again I'm not into dumpster diving or making things from dryer lint. I'm looking for advice from someone who's been there and done that! Mary Hunt is that person. Her slogan of "Bringing Dignity to the Art of Living Within Your Means" says it best. I loved this book, and her updated and combined book "Complete Cheapskate" brings us into the new century!

Miserly Moms is Heaps Better!
I read this book and like the other people who made reviews, I found that too many chapters were taken up with credit card advice. I also didn't particularly like the format of the book. You had to read chapters upon chapters to find any useful information rather than in point format. Some of the information was useful, but I think Miserly Moms and The Tightwad Gazette's are much better.

Read the "Tightwad Gazette" books instead.
While this book is acceptable, like other reviewers I found it a bit over-emotional and feel Amy Dacyzycn's tightwad books are MUCH better. This reads a bit like a Heloise book, lots of scattered tips, some are good, some are obvious. Half the book is spent talking about credit cards. Yes, credit cards can be evil, but it all depends on the person using them. Overall, I was not very impressed with this book, and I'm glad I got it out of the library.

Tightwad Gazette is ten times better!
Although some of Mary Hunt's work is OK for people who have a major problem with credit card debt, most of her suggestions are obvious and not terribly insightful. Tightwad Gazette is far more practical, and much less padded with silly emotionalism.

good for beginners
Mary Hunt's books are good for the beginner. This is a rehash of her other book as the last person wrote, so only purchase one. If you want every possible option there is to save money, read the Tightwad Gazette 1-3. ... Read more

Book Description

Even if you have lost 40, 50, or even 80 percent of your savings, it is still possible to retire in comfort.

This year's stock market collapse has been especially devastating to millions of Americans in their forties and fifties who had been buying stocks and mutual funds for their retirement years. Trillions of dollars were lost, and thousands of retirement accounts and portfolios were reduced by more than 50 percent. The question now is, what's the next step? Will these hardworking people need to continue working into their seventies? Not if they make the right moves today, says Jonathan Clements, The Wall Street Journal's highly respected personal finance columnist.

Today, investors are faced with a barrage of dubious advice. Stocks are supposedly dead. Bonds are now touted as the only safe way to invest. Meanwhile, folks are once again claiming you can't go wrong with real estate. Clements, an award-winning personal finance columnist, rips apart this dubious advice, telling readers what's true and what's not. In the same feisty, easy-to-understand style that he brings to his regular Wall Street Journal columns, Clements gives readers a road map for the years ahead. He takes them step-by-step through the process of rebuilding their nest eggs and explains how, after reaching retirement, they can squeeze the maximum out of their savings.

This practical, concise guide will allow all readers to stop panicking, rebuild assets, and get their retirement plans back on track. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Read a common sense guide to investing
As a CPA and registered investment adviser, I am always looking for a way to explain investment principles to my clients in a way they can easily understand. This book accomplishes this all-important function, and is a must read for investors. Jonathan presents common sense information which is unbiased. Many investors would profit from following the guidelines Jonathan presents, and should.

Jonathan presents a realistic approach to investing that avoids the day to day stimuli that can lead investors astray. The book also provides hope to those who've truly "lost it", either in dollar terms or in terms of their approach to investing.

People who read and understand this book will be ahead of those who don't, whether they invest on their own or use an adviser. I know anyone who has read this book will be better educated and will better understand investing.

Rx for Bear Market Paralysis
Investors contemplating retirement, but stunned by losses sustained in the extended bear market that began in the spring of 2000, will find hope and encouragement in Wall Street Journal columnist Jonathan Clements' "Now What?". This is a do-it-for-yourself repair strategy for baby boomers with badly damaged bubble portfolios. First, face facts, we are told: You've got a "bone-head" portfolio, and it's not likely to come back in value, so sell your losers. Forget the "foolish beat-the-market fantasy" promoted by Wall Street's brokerage houses and money management firms. Invest to capture market returns with stock index funds. Diversify with stocks, bonds, and real estate. Specifically, you should own large and small US stocks and foreign stocks. For the bond portion of your portfolio, use inflation indexed treasuries and short-term corporate funds, and to boost your income, consider high yield bond mutual funds. Clements recognizes that "this will be the decade of the dividend and interest payment". So, REITS (real estate income trusts) with their high, single-digit returns, should represent 10-15% of your portfolio. In all this, Jonathan Clements is in good company: W. Bernstein, C. Ellis, B. Malkiel, L.Swedroe, B. Schultheis, et.al., have recently written (or updated) books with similar conclusions. Clements' contribution is in the timeliness of his insistence that boomers can salvage their own retirement plans by acting to keep investment costs in check, diversifying, and saving "like crazy". Indeed, the investment process should be simple to follow. "Why are we such sluts for sophistication?" Clements asks with exasperation. Readers may be skeptical that a fifty-year old, in an example, who hasn't saved a "nickel" for retirement can accomplish much by age sixty-five. But this late starting investor is not the book's primary focus. 'Gilding the Golden Years' (Chapter 7) is one of the author's better chapters. Investing may be "simple", but it is also an art, so this frequently quoted columnist's portfolio advice is of value. Clements is clearly intrigued by a strategy of establishing multiple sources of investment income during retirement. In addition to income from social security, 401k-style plans, pensions, and humbled securities portfolios, investors might consider an immediate annuity, a reverse mortgage, or even part-time work. After all, if it's true that investors should take no more than five percent of their investment assets each year for income, working part-time to earn five thousand dollars is like having another hundred thousand dollars in retirment assets. And an unconventional idea like a reverse mortgage may take on a new practicality for today's generation of soon-to-be retired. Investors paralyzed by their recent bear market experience will find sound, helpful advice in this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Praise for WEALTHY&WISE

"Wealthy & Wise is the ideal handbook for everyone. The practical advice it contains is a perfect road map for a fuller, healthier, more secure life."
–Leonard A. Lauder, Chairman, Estée Lauder Companies Inc.

"Heidi Steiger has brought together a veritable million dollar roundtable of America’s greatest experts on the unique needs of the wealthy. Wealthy & Wise is spot on in helping them become the CEOs of their personal and financial lives."
–W. Randall Jones, Editor in Chief, Worth magazine

"Wealthy & Wise is an indispensable asset. At last, here’s a book on sophisticated wealth concerns that we can all understand."
–Carolyn Bechtel, Chairperson, NFTE Northern California

"Wealthy & Wise is essential reading to help people learn how to properly protect their assets and allow them to grow."
–Anthony N. Pritzker, The Pritzker Group

"In my business we are great at making ads and that can lead to making a lot of money. However, the part of our brain that knows how to invest it, or spend it, or bequeath it is quite possibly dead. Wealthy & Wise helps to make up for that little brain deficiency."
–Nina DiSesa, Chairperson, Chief Creative Officer, McCann-Erickson New York

"In one easy read, Heidi Steiger has brought together the experience of experts who can help you overcome the human and financial hurdles of wealth and make you a successful investor."
–A. Michael Lipper, CFA, President, Lipper Advisory Services

"Wealthy & Wise is an impressive and much-needed book. The first section on the personal issues and family dynamics surrounding financial wealth is especially important and provides both practical guidance and sage wisdom."
–Charles W. Collier, Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Harvard University

"Wealthy & Wise is an impressive piece of work that gives the reader good insights into the wide universe of wealth issues. The stories and examples are particularly helpful as they bring alive the lessons that have been learned about both the dynamics and the management of wealth."
–H. Peter Karoff, founder and Chairman, The Philanthropic Initiative, Inc. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A little disappointing
This book contains some interesting articles about wealth management, but it's nothing I haven't read in magazines and newspapers. Also, a lot of the advice in the book is more relevant to high net worth individuals (people who are likely to be Neuberger Berman's clients) than for ordinary Joes like myself. Try to borrow it from the library - this is definitely not a keeper.

Useful and entertaining - make your money work for you
I'm a big reader of business and personal finance books. Wealthy & Wise fills a niche that no other one book I've seen does. It covers a lot but in a way that's not overwhelming. I liked the idea that each section is written by a specialist in that field since no one can be an expert on all these subjects.

A few of the chapter subjects were beyond my means (though voyeuristically I enjoyed reading some of the advice for the super rich), but the overarching message is advice we should all take to heart - Manage your wealth; don't let it manage you. This isn't a book of corny aphorisms, it's full of practical, useful advice to make your money make you happier and let it add to, not get in the way of, your relationships.

Wealthy and Wise: Secrets About Money
Heidi has compiled a masterpiece. While I have led a very successful career, I often had questions regarding my wealth and how to use it responsibly. This book gives very clear, concise advice on how life should be lived and I will make sure my two sons will read this book before they graduate from school. Thank you Heidi.

Wealthy and Wise: Secrets About Money by Heidi Steiger
I found Heidi's book excellent. All the chapters were informative and gave outstanding advice. Accumulating wealth is half the battle - having wealth help you to live a happy and contented life is the other half. I will definitely be using the advice within the book and will recommend this book to all my friends.

Confidence for a career changer...
As a single woman in my 30s with the responsibility of supporting myself financially, I find Heidi Steiger's book to be an invaluable resource. The chapter titled, "A Better Career the Second Time Around" by Janis Reals Ellig was particularly helpful to me given that I recently made a major career change. I had grown accustomed to a stable income, a 401k plan, and health benefits as part of a full-time job in an established company. After leaving that career to pursue a new one, I was worried about how I'd manage my finances, particularly since I had decided to return to graduate school. Although I had some money saved, I needed to find a way to make it last and to prudently manage my finances with higher expenses and a much lower income. Janice Reals Ellig does a wonderful job of persuading readers to put our financial fears aside, pursue our dreams, and be confident that we'll be fully capable of taking control of our new financial situation. The book also provides excellent guidance (even understandable to me - a novice investor) on how to set financial goals, determine risk tolerance, seek professional advice, as well as other essential investment counsel. "Wealthy & Wise" has given me confidence that I'll be able to manage my money intelligently and effectively as I continue my education and enter into a new field. ... Read more