You Don't Have to be Rich: Comfort, Happiness, and Financial Security on Your Own Terms

From Publishers WeeklyChatzky, a Today show contributor and columnist for Money, Time and USA Weekend, acknowledges that the combined impact of the declining stock market, war and continuing unemployment have led people to worry about money more than in the recent past. However, Chatzky says, they don't know what to do with their concerns. The solution: "It's time to take back our lives. And in order to do that we need to take back our money.... We need to regain our financial power if we feel we've ceded it. Or to grab hold of that power, even if we've never paid much attention before." To find out what steps people should take, Chatzky and the Roper Center surveyed 1,505 people about the impact of money on their happiness, and how prepared they feel with their financial plans for the future. Chatzky uses the survey responses as chapter openers and then goes on to offer anecdotes and advice. She discusses finding the right job, saving, setting realistic goals, planning for emergencies and more. Chatzky's style is friendly and her counsel sound, though less extensive than some readers may need. Those struggling with basic money woes, like debt or trying to put away savings for their children's college education, will find this book helpful, but people wanting more in-depth or sophisticated information would do better with other investment guides.Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.