4.0 out of 5 stars Excelent comprehensive book for most financing matters, October 25, 1998
By A Customer

This book is a great book for folks who are trying to figure out how to start in on planning there finances. Topics include almost anything you may need in life including useful things such as : Insurance analysis(Differnt types and cost), Planing retirement(401k, IRA's etc.),How to pick a financual adviser(If you feel you need one),General sections covering Stocks, bonds etc., Terms,Taxes, Information about purchasing homes & Loans, and Alot more subjects,
The book is broken down into sections depending on you'r age. This has advantages, and some disadvantages - If you end up reading the book from cover to cover (like I did) you will find alot of repeating information. On the other hand, If you are looking for specific information for your age group things are easier to find. Although the book does metion the ROTH IRA, it does not go into detail about the pros and cons, I'm sure this information was not out when the book was written.

The book did not blow me away with alot of tech terms but introduced them and explained each as it was introduced. There are some nice work sheets in the back that I recomend you photo-copy and use the photo-copy, since you will probably be updating them.

If you read this book you will find yourself going back to it time and again. This is one of those books that may change your life. It will give you an idea of where you are and what you should do to try to aquire a secure future.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Beginners Book, November 8, 2001
By Thor Vadir "herrdirektor" (Beverly Hills, CA United States) - See all my reviews

While this film is clearly not for people that have a background in investing, it is an excellent reference for people that are just looking into their financial situations. It is packed with information that is presented in a very basic manner so that anyone can understand it.
The book is divided into different sections ranging from investing and insurance, to estate planning. In each of these sections, the contents are further divided into different phases of people's lives (20-30's, 40-50's, 60'+). This is helpful in allowing one to reflect on their own strategies as well as where they may be headed.

Again, the real strength of this book is how rudimentary it is. It would be a terrible disappointment to anyone that has even a minimal understanding of finance. Thus, if you are seriously considering this book, know that it will be a good refresher if you are rusty, or jumping off point if you have no knowledge.

I was particularly impressed with the discussion on estate planning. I have an advanced background in finance and investing, but nevertheless was able to gleam a pearl or two.

This book makes a great reference as well. I chose to read it cover to cover, but it would have been equally as helpful as a reference book. People with children may even consider purchasing it as a project to go over with their kids. Best of luck. "