Book Review - 25 Money Strategies Your Teacher Forgot to Tell You About

Hello Folks! It's been awhile but it's nice to have something to share with you which I hope will be helpful.

I have had the opportunity recently to be introduced to an author by the name of Richard Pan. A native of Latvia, Richard has a Master's in Education, speaks four languages and, most importantly for these purposes, has written a couple of books about money aimed at young people.

His most recent endeavor is entitled '25 Money Strategies Your Teacher Forgot  to Tell You About." I read it recently, and here's what I think....

I like the book. Now - right off the bat - remember Richard's native language is not English - keep that in mind as you read through the book. It's funny how a number of Richard's strategies (from half a world away) are very similar in nature to those in my own book...staying healthy to reduce health care expenses as one example. He does a good job of explaining all of his strategies in detail and offers some unique thoughts. My favorite quote is "Expensive 'stuff' doesn't make you cool - it makes you poor!" - buy your clothes at Thrift Shops!

I'm not sure how parents will react to the idea of young people staying at home as long as possible (at least age 25 or so) to save on expenses!! My 18 year old just moved out to go to college an hour away and the house is a whole lot quieter. The money saving logic behind the idea is great...but....

The strategy I like the most is 'Zero Dollar Day'. Pick one day a week where you force yourself to NOT spend any cash, or use debit or credit. Richard explains it in detail and it sounds like it would work. Read the book and give it a try.

Truthfully - I like any money book which gets young people thinking about how they spend their money and what they can do to spend less and save more. "25 Money Strategies Your Teacher Forgot  to Tell You About" will do that. Check it out for yourself by clicking on the cover below. Cheers!

But I Can't Cook!!

Let's talk a little bit about a subject that is near and dear to my heart - FOOD! Everybody needs it. Everybody has their favourite kinds. But not everybody knows how to make it.
As a soon-to-be college student living on your own for the first time, the thought of having to actually prepare your own meals can make you a little nervous. You've been used to having most, if not all, of your food prepared by somebody else (ie - MOM). Soon, though, you will have to fend for yourself and actually make meals at your residence. You do not want to be the stereotypical college student living on Instant Noodles 7 days a week. You will need to be able to prepare even some basic meals in order to survive.
There are lots of ways to get ready for this momentous shift in your world. Learn how to cook from your Mother between now and this coming September. Copy out her recipes so you have your own to take with you. Search online for easy to follow recipes or subscribe to one of the numerous food websites which will send you an email every day with a new recipe you can try.
If having an actual step by step guide is more your style - I've found one on Amazon which just might help. It's called "I Don't Know How To Cook". It includes some very basic instructions on very easy to make meals. Get it for yourself or get it as a gift for the student in your life. There are numerous other 'beginners' recipe books available in various formats - so don't say you couldn't find anything when you are having Kraft Dinner for the fourth time in a week! Bon Appetite! Cheers!
Click Below to Check Out The Cookbook!
The "I Don't Know How to Cook" Book: 300 Great Recipes You Can't Mess Up!

Another Year Down! Congratulations!

Now that most post-secondary schools have finished their exams and students are back at home - I just wanted to congratulate those of you graduating in the Class of 2011. You have completed an important part of your life's journey. All the best in persuing the job of your dreams. It is my sincere hope that you accomplish all you desire in life and in your career.
To those of you who are finished school but heading back again in the Fall for another year - keep your eyes on the prize. Save up as much as you can from those summer jobs. Figure out what you're going to do with last year's books (Hint - sell them on one of the multitude of websites designed for just such a purpose). Stay on top of your financial position throughout the summer so when you do head back to class in September, you are ready to face the financial challenges ahead.
Have a great summer everyone. I'll still be here posting and updating and growing the Money Smart Students community - so keep checking back when you have a chance. Cheers!