I recently finished reading Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School? 99 Personal Money Management Lessons to Live By by Cary Siegel, and I must say it was a real eye-opener for someone like me who is passionate about personal finance—yet felt a bit lost navigating it all. This book is marketed as a fantastic gift idea for both high school and college graduates, which caught my attention because I love finding meaningful and practical gifts for the young adults in my life.
Siegel’s book delves into why personal money management isn’t emphasized in traditional education. As someone who has also pondered this question, I found his insights refreshing. The author created this guide for his own children, realizing that many fundamental financial principles are woefully neglected in schools. The result is a concise collection of 99 practical lessons that offer a mixture of traditional wisdom and unconventional advice designed to make the reader think critically about money.
One of the standout positives for me was the ease of readability. The chapters are short and packed with actionable advice, a quality echoed in reviews by both teachers and readers. For instance, an educator highlighted how well-suited this book is for students, making complex subjects accessible and appealing. Another reader remarked on the "sane advice" that is engaging and practical, discussing aspects of finances that are often overlooked, such as the importance of avoiding debt, which is a recurring theme throughout the book.
However, while I was impressed with the accessibility of the content, there were moments where I felt some of the insights bordered on common sense—something pointed out by a few reviewers as well. For example, a customer commented that although many principles seem self-evident, they are often overlooked in daily life, leading people into financial troubles. I agree that sometimes it takes an outside perspective to highlight these "common-sense" concepts, which aren’t so common for everyone.
Another drawback mentioned by some readers was the book’s format; a review noted the excessive empty space on pages that could have been better filled. This could definitely pose a concern for those mindful of environmental issues. I share this sentiment, as a more concise and environmentally conscious presentation would have elevated the reading experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the main takeaway for me was undeniably positive. The chapters are categorized into eight key lessons, making it easy for readers to skim and find pertinent sections specific to their current financial concerns. I particularly appreciated the chapters on credit management and budgeting—elements often glossed over by other financial books.
In terms of expectations, I found that the book met and even exceeded my hopes, particularly in its ability to provoke thought. It doesn’t just offer textbook advice but promotes a deeper discussion around personal money management that certainly resonated with me.
Overall, Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School? is an insightful and practical read that I’d recommend to anyone looking to enhance their financial literacy. It serves as an ideal primer for fresh graduates entering the "real world" and even provides seasoned adults with a refreshing outlook on financial principles.
If you’re looking for a gift that combines practicality and inspiration, this could very well be it. Don’t be surprised if it triggers some thoughtful conversations about money management among your friends and family. I’d rate this book a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars—definitely a worthwhile read!
Discover essential money management tips that school never taught you with this insightful guide. >>