Money revamp / knowledge - book suggestions please 15 December 2022 at 12:43PM in Budgeting & bank accounts 7 replies 225 views

Keith_Scarlett

Hello,

I understand there's a vast amount of useful information on here but I am looking for a single resource (ideally a book) that addresses all the key points / areas anyone looking to take greater financial responsibility and understand more about managing their money might need.

I am not looking for anything sophisticated it would be much more about the nuts and bolts of:

- Budgeting

- Mortgages

- Savings

- Pensions

- Taxation

- National Insurance

- Loans

- Debt management

I saw 2 books that look worthwhile:

Manage Your Like a <bleep> Grown-up by Sam Beckbessinger

Money: A User's Guide by Laura Whateley

Any feedback on these or other thoughts / suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Keith

Zanderman

you could try Martin's financial education textbook as a basic guide:  https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/news/2021/10/first-ever-financial-education-textbook-arrives-in-welsh-schools/

Keith_Scarlett

Thanks for the suggestion, I think I'm after something more in-depth than that however; in the absence of other suggestions I will probably go for one or both of the options I mention above, the reviews suggest they're both worthwhile.

ircE

On Money by Laura Whateley, I've read it and it's good. But note that it's target audience is young people and those with above average wealth - the author is up front about this - so much of the book is focussed around house-buying. It's quite basic and more of an overview of different financial topics to be aware of and some good links to websites and apps.

My own advice is that, as well as reading books, ensure you keep up to date through MSE's newsletter, these forums, and other websites like Monevator and Be Clever With Your Cash. There's a lot of niche personal finance blogs out there that might be more useful for your particular circumstances too.

Band7

Haven't read it as it's not even out yet, don't think I will read it as I don't feel I need more than I know and that I can gleen from MSE, but should have solid advice: book by Paul Lewis of Radio 4 Moneybox fame, due out Jan 5 (weird to miss Xmas presents season): 

https://twitter.com/paullewismoney/status/1602251481377390595?s=20&amp;t=MFsrffA5g7cremGpW1v1ig

Richard1212

Any of Dave Ramsey's books are pretty good and straightforward, Keith.  American but still very relevant.

Keith_Scarlett

Thanks all for the additional replies and suggestions.

I doubt I qualify as above average wealth so maybe Laura Whately's book isn't for me; I had spotted Paul Lewis' book somewhere recently and have listened to him and like how he sets things out when speaking so I might wait for that. I have read reviews of Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover on Goodreads and they didn't fill me with inspiration, making it sound detached from many people's reality.

I think I just want something that reassures me I'm not overlooking anything in re-assessing my money situation and perhaps makes me feel a bit more eyes open. I will report back when I have read whatever it is I settle on.

Keith_Scarlett

Strange, not sure what is creating the additional gaps / line spaces in my posts - not intentional.