Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By - Book reviews of Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By

'Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By' book reviews

Review for'Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By'

Title: Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By

Author: Cary Siegel

Review:

"Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By" by Cary Siegel is an insightful and practical guide that addresses a significant gap in traditional education: personal finance. As the title suggests, Siegel's book is a collection of 99 principles that provide readers with essential financial wisdom that is often overlooked in the school curriculum. The book is particularly valuable for young adults who are just starting to navigate the complexities of managing their personal finances, but its straightforward advice can benefit readers of all ages.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its simplicity and accessibility. Siegel, a retired business executive, distills complex financial concepts into easily digestible principles. Each principle is presented concisely, making the book an excellent resource for those who may feel overwhelmed by the often daunting world of finance. The author avoids jargon and instead uses clear, relatable language, which makes the lessons easy to understand and apply in real life.

The structure of the book is also commendable. Siegel organizes the principles into eight broad lessons, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. This logical organization helps readers build a solid foundation of financial knowledge step by step. Additionally, the principles are accompanied by practical tips and real-life examples, which further enhance the book's applicability. For instance, Siegel provides actionable advice on creating a budget, understanding the importance of compound interest, and avoiding common financial pitfalls.

Another notable aspect of the book is its focus on mindset and behavior. Siegel emphasizes the importance of developing good financial habits and maintaining a positive attitude towards money management. He encourages readers to adopt a proactive approach to their finances, stressing that small, consistent efforts can lead to significant long-term benefits. This perspective is refreshing and empowering, as it reminds readers that financial success is attainable through discipline and smart decision-making.

However, the book is not without its limitations. Some readers may find the principles to be somewhat repetitive, as certain themes recur throughout the book. Additionally, while the advice is generally sound, it may not delve deeply enough into more complex financial topics for those seeking advanced knowledge. For example, the book provides a basic overview of investing but does not explore more sophisticated investment strategies in detail.

Despite these minor shortcomings, "Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?" remains an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their financial literacy. Siegel's practical advice, combined with his straightforward writing style, makes the book an engaging and informative read. It serves as a valuable starting point for individuals who want to take control of their finances and build a secure financial future.

In conclusion, Cary Siegel's "Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By" is a must-read for those seeking to enhance their understanding of personal finance. Its user-friendly approach and actionable insights make it a valuable addition to any personal finance library. Whether you are a recent graduate, a young professional, or simply someone looking to improve your financial well-being, this book offers practical guidance that can help you achieve your financial goals.

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