Maybe you’ve devised a surefire way to win the lottery. Or perhaps you’re counting on some Dickensian twist, like a heretofore unknown aunt leaving you a vast estate in her will. But probably not, which means it’s up to you to take control of your finances.
Budgeting, planning for retirement, and investing can seem intimidating — but honestly, it’s not rocket science. I should know. I’m the host of Motley Fool Answers, a weekly podcast that helps people save more, spend less, and invest better (and have a pretty good time doing it).
There are plenty of books that offer personal finance advice. Perhaps too many books, in fact. It’s hard to know which one is best for you and your situation.
But have no fear, a Fool is here … to pass along a list of some of the best books out there that can help you along your path to financial awesomeness. By listening, you can master your money even while you are busy commuting to work, doing dishes, or walking the dog.
If you need a place to start (I’m looking at you, Millennial), start with The One-Page Financial Plan by Carl Richards. This common-sense book will help you build a budget, prioritize goals, and stay motivated.
For that overachieving high schooler or college student in your life (or maybe that’s you), Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School lays out basic principles for how to manage your money. It is filled with personal lessons and practical advice, making it a great place to start for financial newbies.
If you’re going to get better with your money, you’ll need to keep making small smart financial decisions every day. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, explains the science behind the habits that are eroding your time, money, and health.
It’s science: Women and men approach money differently and often face different challenges. Worth It speaks directly to the issues many women have with money, such as anxiety and a lack of confidence. Author Amanda Steinberg, who cofounded the popular women’s financial site DailyWorth, shares her personal challenges as well as strategies for taking control of your financial life.
If you want to have more money, it’s a pretty straightforward equation: spend < earn. You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero focuses on the “earn” part by helping you overcome your mindset that is sabotaging your money-making potential. The book is blunt, irreverent, and personal.
Staying disciplined with your finances isn’t always easy — especially when your friends are driving new cars, eating out every night, and having fun spending money — so here’s some motivation to keep you on track. The Millionaire Next Door is a timeless book that reveals the habits of wealthy people. Spoiler: Most millionaires didn’t get that way by trying to keep up with the Joneses.
If you aren’t investing, you are missing out on the best way to grow your money and save for retirement. Stocks for The Long Run outlines strategies to help you master the most profitable way to invest in the stock market.
Journalist Roger Lowenstein draws on three years of unprecedented access to Buffett's family, friends, and colleagues to provide the first definitive inside account....
Ron Lieber is a father and personal finance writer for the New York Times. His book, The Opposite of Spoiled, provides actionable advice for parents to help their kids establish a healthy relationship with money. Yes, you really can raise money-savvy kids (even if you aren’t so savvy yourself).
If retirement is right around the corner, How to Retire Happy will help you navigate the many complex decisions you’ll face, such as insurance, Social Security, financial planning, and more. The author is a former Washington Post columnist who provides a great overview, as well as further reading recommendations if you want to dig deeper on any subject.
