Summary:

This compact little book – just 8 chapters and a conclusion – discusses the defining behaviours of the tightwad and spendthrift, and how this spending behaviour can impact relationship dynamics. The author discusses how to work on those spending behaviours if they are a source of stress for you and/or your relationships. It also covers the potential influences and impact on children in the relationship. The chapters include lots of great celebrity quotes on finances and tips on how to resolve spending dilemmas.

Thoughts:

I quite enjoyed the author’s informal writing style and his anecdotes, particularly comforting when it comes to traditionally dry topics like personal finances. I appreciated that he approached the discussion about tightwads and spendthrifts without any judgement or criticism, which often angers the listener/reader and precludes any productive discussion or learning. If you are advanced in financial literacy then you won’t find much in this book to enlighten you; however I found it thought-provoking and helpful to reflect on my own behaviour and how my partner views money and spending. I also appreciated the author’s own outlook on money in general – if you aren’t using it thoughtfully to improve your quality and enjoyment of life, then what is the point?

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this copy to review.