Book Description

Reviews (58)

Financial Freedom
I read this book several times in the early 1980s. I read it until it fell apart. Since then I've been through dozens (more like hundreds) of other investment books, but this is the one that taught me first principles and taught them the best. Basically this guy is a really fine writer who happens to write about investments and personal finance. He's witty, entertaining, and right on target.

As for the content, the basics of investing and frugality are covered. When you get right down to it the basics are all you need, and you can fit them on a 3 by 5 card. Almost all of my investing mistakes in the past 20 years have been a result of trying to make things too complicated. Tobias keeps his message simple, and that's one of this book's strengths.

Like other reviewers, I've given this book as a gift over the years. However, there's another good writer out there in recent years -- Jason Kelly, author of "The Neatest Little Guide..." series.

The Best One-Stop-Shop for Investment and Financial Informat
Not only does Andrew Tobias suggest that readers save and invest, but also shows real ways that people can spend less (through conservation, stocking up on essentials at warehouse prices, saving money on insurance (auto, life, etc), paying yourself first, etc). Additionally, he explains investment vehicles in simple layman terms while divulging his personal opinions. All of this is done in a humorous, witty and quick read...a pleasant surprise to those of us picking up Investment Guides. Tobias truly covers it all, from savings accounts, to options and everything in between such as treasuries and annuities. He also discusses the merits of self-directed investing. It is telling that he dedicated the book "To my broker -- even if he has, from time to time, made me just that." This is a must read for those seeking entry-level knowledge of the ins and outs of investing or simply a witty read on the topic.

Good book, but not the only guide needed.
Although in my opinion this isn't the only investment guide you need, it is a great book that really sheds light on some of the more boring aspects of personal finance.

This entertaining book gives you a good understanding of personal finance, saving, investing, and various strategies to boost your net worth.

I highly recommend getting a copy of this book for yourself and one for a friend, believe me if they follow the tips they'll be thanking you later.

Here's what different national publications have to say about the author:

"Andrew Tobias is one of the financial community's pithily perceptive observers." Forbs

"So full of tips and angles that only a booby or a billionaire could not benefit." The New York Times

"The only investment guide many will indeed ever need." Barron's

Reed Floren

Great book to learn more about finance
It is really the only investment book you will ever need. It covers lots of basic materials. When I first read the book, I thought it lacked details. However, it gave you enough information so that you can dive deeper into other topics on your own. If you are a beginner to investment, that is the best book you will find. Another comparable book would be "The Motley Fool Investment Guide : How The Fool Beats Wall Streets Wise Men And How You Can Too"

Not the Only Investment Book You'll Need, But a Good Start
I read this book more than ten years ago, when I saved enough money from my first job to start dabbling in the stock market. The new edition also has information on Roth IRA's and still offers good advice. For example, selling life insurance to a single person is like selling ice to an eskimo is a mantra that is still ingrained in my mind. Another is that discount brokers are better than full brokers. The book is easy to read and understand. It complements, Engel and Hecht's "How to Buy Stocks." ... Read more

Amazon.com

Thinking of investing in Internet stocks, but not sure where to start? Putting money into technology investments is risky, but it doesn't have to be a big gamble. Cyberstocks: An Investor's Guide to Internet Companies from Hoover's Business Press offers concise explanations of the technology involved and the industry's terminology as well as in-depth profiles of 101 public Internet companies. Alan Chai, the editor, has been investing since the age of 10 and is a former top management executive of several high-tech companies. Chai warns that you've got to do your homework if you want to succeed with Internet stocks, and this book is a great place to start! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

It's outdated
well obviously if its written in 96 it no longer applies toda ... Read more