This is the worst book on saving I have ever read (and I have read quite a few). It's simplistic, treads the reader like they're stupid and the "John Frugal and William Spendall" examples are useless. It doesn't have any new insights on saving and doesn't teach you anything that you haven't read elsewhere (and much better).

By the way: two of the reviews are from Fargo, that's where the writer is from. What a coincidence!

Specific how-to's with a bit of inspiration mixed in make for a palatable concoction in author Ertelt's "Saving Your Way To Success," a book that financially free-to-be readers not only can look to for ways to climb out of debt, but for ideas about creating and achieving financial wealth as well.

Ertelt, who brings an abundance of personal experience, research and observation to the equation, wastes little time in making a point for his main premise, as evidenced by an opening paragraph that is devoid of fluff - and teeming with optimism:

"Saving is the key to success. There is no other technique available that can generate success for as many people and as powerfully as saving money can. Whether it be minimum wage or a hundred dollars per hour, whether a person is below the poverty line or a multi-millionaire, it makes no difference. Any person can succeed. Saving makes it possible for any individual, no matter what obstacles present themselves, to successfully reach his or her goals for success. It does not matter what age a person is. It does not matter what obstacles may be impeding the path. It only matters how much income the person is saving to produce success. The person saving nothing will not get ahead, because assets, and thus net worth, will not grow. Income alone does not automatically produce an enormous net worth and success. On the other hand, when saving is done wholeheartedly and passionately, it will brings success. The more a person saves, not earns, the more a person gets ahead. Turn saving money into a highly productive program that will save a lot, and saving becomes the key to success."

Comprising the innards of this hearty linguistic stew are in-depth chapters that travel a straightforward, competent path toward illuminating the basics, including: "Reach For Your Savings Potential" (learning formulas, maximizing savings); "Start Saving When You Earn Your First Dollar" (teaching children how to save, learning responsibility); "Remember the Four R's: Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle (becoming a do-it-yourself mechanic); "Time is Money (using time wisely); "Debt" (resisting the temptation of credit cards); and "How To Save All The Time" (creating the perfect savings program, using the power of self-discipline).

All in all, "Saving Your Way To Success" is an interesting, valuable, and highly readable exploration of the green stuff - including both the pitfalls and peaks surrounding its necessity -and reality.

Justin Ertelt's Saving Your Way To Success is a very practical, "user friendly" guide to the art, craft, and science of saving money. The informative text is adroitly written for readers of all experience levels, from teenagers saving for college to workers nearing retirement age. From conserving money on needs and luxuries, to teaching fiscal responsibility to one's children, to budgeting one's time, to coping with debt and putting success in life first and foremost on one's list of goals, Saving Your Way To Success is a useful, motivational, no-nonsense book and highly recommended to anyone wanting to enhance their money management skills and secure their personal financial goals.