The book starts out by having the reader examine how s/he feels when spending money. E.g., does it give one a bit of a thrill, or does it leave one feeling guilty? It then proceeds to a more traditional exposition of the lessons of finance, but the "emotional" approach permeates the book and allows one to see money issues in a new light.

The downside to this book, and the primary reason that I'm giving it four stars and not five, is that the authors use it, at times, as a catalog for their financial and estate-planning products. If you can ignore having overpriced "estate planning kits" marketed to you by those who are otherwise trying to help your finances, then it's worthwhile to read this book... even for those who have read more than their fair share of personal-finance books. It felt a little unseemly (to me anyway) to be reading how important it is not to spend money unnecessarily, and then in the next chapter read about how one needed their estate-planning kit that almost certainly provides, but at a much higher cost, no more information than the Dummies book on the same topic.

All things considered though--taken with a grain of salt--the book is very good.


Powerful Stuff!! Dare You To Implement It And Stick To IT!   April 2, 2003
 3 out of 11 found this review helpful

This book is great. I will read it over and over for the rest of my life. Its entertaining and yet dense enough to be used as reference material well after you finish it. Amazingly organized. The subject matter progresses just as it should and the real life examples really bring the lessons to life. Empower yourself and think about your future and that of your children. Plan and never be in want. Not a strain to implement. Good for any situation. Go!!! That you folks at Money Mastery!!! I am now aware.


Best Kept Financial Secret In America.   April 24, 2002
 14 out of 15 found this review helpful

WOW: As a working mom, I like to read finsncial books to help my family. This is clearly the best financial and tax planning book that I have ever read, as the other reviewers have also noted. It is clear, concise, simply written, and chuck full of financial and tax planning strategies. There is an especially good tax section by an IRS attorney that was immensely helpful for my small business and for people who are thinking of starting a small business. For example, I didn't know that I could deduct all my dry cleaning and laundry expenses after a business trip. The discussion on deducting my entertainment and golf was particularly interesting.

I have read many financial books including the Rich Dad/ Poor Dad series and "The Millionaire Next Door" by Stanley, and this book blows them all out of the water.

Trust me: This book is one of the better kept financial secrets. Its too bad these authors don't promote it more because it is fabulous. If there is any one financial book that you should read and give to your children, this one is it!