GREAT READS

The Money Class: Learn to Create Your New American Dream

Suze Orman.

I'll admit that when this book hit the library shelves I was thinking that this was a book about the super-rich, based on the title. So I passed it by not feeling anything in common with their ilk. Then on a whim I took home the CDbook to listen to in my car for my daily drives. It turns out my thinking was way off base and I felt pretty silly as this book turns out to be more of a course of study, hence class, in personal finance based on the realities of today's economy.

Written early in 2011 Suze Orman's "The Money Class" is a timely volume on what can be done to come to terms with and plan for the "New American Dream". This new reality deals with economic factors since the financial meltdown of 2008 what with declining home and investment values as well as higher long term unemployment rates. It is probably the first time in American history where we may not be able to reach the same standard of living as our parent's generation. This book takes you class by class through this often intimidating world of personal finance and covers everything from family dynamics, home, career, retirement planning, and ultimately to retirement living. It is easy to understand and clear steps are laid out for you to take action whatever your age or circumstances. Whether or not you choose to listen to or read this book, you won't be disappointed.

Recommended by Cheryl Finnan