Editorial Review

Once upon a time, Michelle McKinney Hammond’s lifestyle centered around the finer things in life—designer clothes, five-star restaurants, and bag after bag of high-end nonessentials. Then one day, like many people, Michelle awoke to find herself on the losing end of a most unwelcome and unexpected financial downturn. In response, she quickly went from “spoiled” to “fabulously frugal,” and with courage and a sense of humor, she made the necessary adjustments in her life.
Now, Hammond, a self-proclaimed DIVA (Divine Inspiration for Victorious Attitude), shares what she learned about her own spending, desires, and needs and how she adjusted to life during an unpredictable economy. Divanomics is filled with money-saving tips on fashion, beauty, home decor, entertaining, diet, housing, and more. ... Read more

Reviews

A Diva joins the struggling middle class
The subtitle of this latest book by Michelle McKinney Hammond is "How to Still be Fabulous When You're Broke" and she is pretty fabulous. But girlfriend, I have mixed feelings about this book.

Michelle McKinney Hammond has written an overview of how to live large on a small budget. She gives some sound advice: shop at discount stores, separate your wants from your needs, clip coupons, don't buy more than you can afford. She encourages women to focus on their relationship with God over their relationship with credit cards.

More autobiography than advice, some of her tips are definitely big city, single gal: make dinner out of cocktail hour snacks in hotel lobbies. This won't work for the mom schlepping it out in the suburbs. Never having had the lifestyle Ms. Hammond once enjoyed, I found my self thinking "I already knew that" through most of the book.

However, she has an incredibly warm and engaging style that makes me want to read more of her writing or hear her speak at a conference. I'd recommend this book for Divas whose fortunes have fallen with the stock market. For the rest of us middle class folks, I say "Girlfriend, we're way ahead of you."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Fun to Read
Michelle McKinney Hammond is a best-selling author of more than thirty books. She was also a co-host of the television program, Aspiring Women. In her latest book, Divanomics, she describes her personal financial trials and how she learned to get back on track. She writes from a Christian perspective, using humor, good-natured fun, and has a modern, hip tone. I don't normally like "hip" but she does it so well, I actually smiled often as I read. There is so much to glean from this book. Her own financial difficulties are actually fun to read. I mean, who wouldn't want to read about how much money she spent and how the upper-class have to deal with accountants to handle their money? Frankly, it was entertaining.

The book is extremely well done. At the end of each chapter, you'll find advice, questions, and suggestions to help you get a grip on your own finances. Her focus on God is inspiring and I enjoyed this book very much.

*I received this book from Tyndale House for Review purposes.*

Diva-lite-ful!
"Divanomics: How to Still Be Fabulous When You're Broke" surprised me, in a most rewarding way!

I expected a standard "how to." Instead I found pages of lively narrative, soul-searching questions, and practical, easy-to-implement advice.

I expected a "diva" attitude (you know, the "waah-I-can't-eat-at-$1000-a-plate-functions any more".) What I found in Divanomics is a realistic point-of-view that speaks to all women, and most enjoyably, a lot of frugal living steeped with spirituality.

Overall, this is a great guide for the newly frugal or for those looking to develop a more faith-based resource to help you cope with the stark realities of today's economy.

Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Who knew being fabulous on a budget could be SO...fabulous!
DIVA's every where shout hallelujah!

Divanomics is just the book you've been praying for.
Relevant, real, transparent and inspiring,
Divanomics will help you shed the shame
you may be carrying along with debt.

Regardless of your financial situation,
Hammond will remind you
that you are not alone while taking you on a soul
journey to freedom, fearlessness
and fabulousness all in the blink
of a MAC mascared eye.

You can be fabulous when you're
broke - Divanomics will show you how.

Grab your copy today!

Marina Woods, GoodGirlBookClubOnline
The #1 Destination for Today's Aspiring Woman
... Read more

Editorial Review

The astonishing, uplifting story of a real-life Indiana Jones and his humanitarian campaign to use education to combat terrorism in the Taliban’s backyard

Anyone who despairs of the individual’s power to change lives has to read the story ofGreg Mortenson, a homeless mountaineer who, following a 1993 climb of Pakistan’s treacherous K2, was inspired by a chance encounter with impoverished mountain villagers and promised to build them a school. Over the next decade he built fifty-five schools—especially for girls—that offer a balanced education in one of the most isolated and dangerous regions on earth. As it chronicles Mortenson’s quest, which has brought him into conflict with both enraged Islamists and uncomprehending Americans, Three Cups of Tea combines adventure with a celebration of the humanitarian spirit. ... Read more

Reviews

A blueprint for making a difference
After four trips over the past three years to Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, and after founding Kashmir Family Aid (www.kashmirfamily.org) to aid victims of the Oct 8, 2005 earthquake, I whole-heartedly endorse Greg Mortenson and his work. This book adds new life to the over-wraught dictum that "one CAN make a difference." Beyond that, if one wants to truly get inside the rural Pakistani's heart and soul, this is mandatory reading.

My personal experience has been that once I met these people (and yes, had tea with them in their tiny homes, or in the quake region, in their tents), it was difficult to want to leave to return to the West. It's a hard thing to explain but Mortenson's book will absolutely do the job. A powerful thread within his story: It would be impossible not to love these people after getting to know them one-on one.

These remote village people are simple, strong and proud. Their lives are spent nurturing their families and working hard in a politically and environmentally tortured region. BUY THE BOOK, get inside the people of this place and then send Greg Mortenson your donation.

One man's remarkable vision
"Three Cups of Tea" is a compelling account of the difference one fiercely determined person can make in the world. I won't use this space to repeat the descriptions already covered in the editorial reviews, but Greg Mortenson's passion for educating children, especially girls, in the rugged mountain regions of northern Pakistan is truly remarkable. The relationships he has patiently built with local people and moderate Muslim leaders in the area over many years are key to his success.

In addition to education, Mortenson's Central Asia Institute funds projects that provide health care and clean water. He is also building schools in northern Afghanistan, again with the support of local people.

One alarming chapter of the book includes a discussion of the spread of fundamentalist madrassas in the mountain regions of Pakistan, which should deeply concern Americans, including the government. It is essential for Americans to support Mortenson's Central Asia Institute initiatives to provide children with educational alternatives.

"Three Cups of Tea" is very well written, with heartfelt portraits of courageous people. It is a superb and moving story of an exceptional man.

So Much More Than Just a Book
It's a book but then so are the latest bestsellers yet they offer nothing beyond a mindless distraction. To say Three Cups of Tea is about peace is to say that Mortensen goes hiking in the mountains. To say it's about building schools in the most desolate, remote, obscure part of the planet is to say an idealistic young man had a wild idea.

Mortenson and co-author David Oliver Relin bring the reader to the foot of K2, into a village so isolated from everything that there doesn't even exist a bridge to connect them to the world beyond the raging river that flows from the glacier fields. There Mortenson introduces us to children so eager to learn they work multiplication tables in the dirt without benefit of a teacher or books.

How does this man, so grateful to the people who saved his life, repay them? One school at a time. It's a truely inspirational story of what any of us, including a kid born in Minnesota, can do to change the world. The fact that the book is also a true page-turner and is so "can't put it down, don't interrupt me, I gotta know what happens next" good makes this must reading for every high school senior, every empty-nester, every one of us wondering what to do with the rest of our lives. Although I likely won't venture to the high mountains of Pakistan or Tibet, Mortenson has inspired me to find a way to make a difference. Go read it and find your inspiration!!!

STOP what you are doing...
you.. yes YOU behind the terminal, surfing the web, maybe finding that cheap chotcky to buy or something. Stop what you are doing if you have come across this book and this review. You need to read this more than you think!

Within the confines of 350 pages you can be transported to a world that for most Westerner's and specifically Americans, is probably very unknown, and more than likely, highly misunderstood. In this world you will be introduced to a man named Greg Mortenson, or as you soon to know him, as Greg Sahib..

The story that is told by David Oliver Revin, will not just be inspiring, will not be just teeth clenching, it will make you re-evaluate what you do in your life. While most of us may talk about the incapacity of the administration, or some (unfortunatly) the hatred of the middle East, or maybe some of you are even lying down in the streets, but there is ONE person who is TRULY doing something about the problems of foreign policy by litteraly getting his hands dirty touching the earth to build a school foundation, and risking his life ten times over.

When you have read this journey, you will be saying to yourself, did he really do that? That guy is CRAZY! Did that really happen?, the Taliban? , How is that possible? In the journey that is fortold of a change of fate through a failed mountain expedition, you can see what the spirit of the individual can do and how it can be transformed. As the events of 9/11 soon come to fruition, Greg couldn't be in a better place at the right time, and with David's narration, you are litteraly put in the drivers seat.

After reading Mortensen's journey, you will want to litteraly book a plane ticket to somewhere you have never been before. In reading the accomplishments of a somewhat flawed (hey what person is perfect) individual, you will feel small and insignifigant. David Relin will not just explain what Greg did, he will make you live it, with some enjoyable side narrations that will make you grin.

In Three Cups of Tea, David has managed more than anything to explain the heart of a problem (Islamic hatred of the West) of a very complicated nature (through numerous foreign policy debacles and politics spanning decades), and how one man knows of an easy solution (Go to poor regions of the Middle East and give education and extend the olive branch. Build schools for the poorest of the poor, ecspecially for girls. And more importantly, let them know that it was done.. by an American).

As if it was so difficult to understand.

I encourage you to take this journey and figure out that sometimes the biggest problems in life require some of the most common sense solutions. I also echo the other comments on here that you should buy this book from the actually CAI institute and consider a donation as well.

Greg Mortensen is doing what he is doing best, and his passion comes through the pages. For myself my passion is to write. Like Gregg I feel it is what I can do best (when I put my effort my passion, and my soul into it).

now if you'll excuse me...

I have to go write a check.

What an incredible story...
My goodness. I just finished the book, and I am in tears. I am a world traveller (32 countries in just about every region on the globe), and consider myself compassionate to a fault; but even I, after September 11th, possessed a fair degree of anger at Muslims. I had spent some time in the Middle East and North Africa, and although I tried to respect the traditions as much as possible (covering my arms, wore long skirts, not looking at men in the eye), I was still assaulted in broad daylight in a street bazaar in Cairo, Egypt, surrounded by at least a dozen of my classmates (an old man came up and grabbed my [...]). The anger that started then had totally blown up after September 11th and consumed me, the point where I had actually said that I will never believe Islam is a religion of peace, especially after the reaction to the Mohammed cartoons.

Well.

I was wrong.

This book has reminded me why I loved the regions in the Himalayas and beyond; the simplicity of life, the fierceness and protectiveness towards family and friends; and their incredible desire to do the best for themselves with whatever they have on hand, even if it means going to school on a bare field covered with morning frost. Greg and David describe these people in Baltistan and beyond so well that you cannot help admiring or even falling in love with these proud, strong people.

I've always told people if you encourage positive change for just one person, you'll change the whole world for them. Greg and his CAI cohorts have done that for literally hundreds of thousands of children. It was so gratifying for me to read, despite the selfishness of our people today, that there are still some who passionately believe in changing the world for others.

For me, it was the speech by Syed Abbas (on page 257, hardcover) that broke the last of my hard-core attitude towards Muslims and Islam.

I am off to make my contribution - meager but still a contribution - to CAI so they can continue their incredible work.

A MUST read
Greg Mortenson's three cups of tea is an account of his unsuccessful attempt on mighty K2, world's second highest peak in Himalayas. Though unsuccessful, his failure embarked him on a mission to educate people of an area inhabitants of breath taking hills and valleys and virgin plains. Whats mind boggling about his adventure is his spirit of self sacrifice for a people of a land much misunderstood by the west. His story proves that with love, compassion and sincerity, you can melt the hearts, even those of mountains. Rightly regarded a hero in Northern Pakistan, his book would go a long way in bridging the divide between the inhabitants of East and West. If you haven't read the book, you are Missing on something. Highly recommended.

Promote peace on Earth. Read this book.
This is the most amazing and inspiring book I have read in a very long time. I am a high school teacher and the mother of a U.S. Army Seargent who has completed a tour in Afghanistan and is currently serving in Iraq. I bought the book to send to him, but thought I would read it first. I'm very glad I did. The book is as exciting as an adventure novel, but it's true. Anyone who cares about the education and welfare of children and who desires to understand the problems faced in fighting terrorism should read this book. There is hope for peace in this world and Greg Mortenson is doing wonderful things to make it happen. He is a true American hero. Everyone needs to read this book and everyone who does will want to share it with others.

A lesson in altruism
This book is absolutely wonderful. Mortenson shows us how one dedicated person can make a difference. He also poignantly shows the world that education and non-violent assistance does a profoundly better job of winning support and "attacking" terrorism than warfare! (Duh!) I think there are very few Americans who would be willing to make the kind of sacrifice Greg Mortenson has but he has certainly inspired me to support his and similar efforts in the best way I can. In my opinion, he deserves a Nobel Peace prize. I would like to see this book in every high school library in America. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

So Great I Bought 3, December 2, 2010
Wanting to save money is a no-brainer in today's economy - being able to do it, is another thing. Kathy Spencer does a great job of explaining how, when and why to get things at a great price and to "pay it forward" when you are able to score on great deals. I bought this book - actually 3 - one for me, one for a friend, and one for my mom (I really wanted to help them save more money) - has more than paid for itself I don't know how many times. I love going to stores now with a handful of coupons, a cartfull of groceries and I get to leave with a lot more in my pocket than I used to - and way more in my pantry. Thank you Kathy!!

Eye Opening, December 1, 2010
For many years I have said I am going to start using coupons and always fell back into feeling that they were a waste of time and led you to spend more money than you would otherwise (buying products just because you had a coupon). My husband vehemently disagrees with that theory and has been what we thought was a faithful "coupon-er" for many years. We have just started reading "HOW TO SHOP FOR FREE" and are dumbfounded by just how much we DIDN'T know! He has already changed his style and is so deep into the book now, that I have just had to order another copy for myself! Not a problem, I know it will pay for itself and then some.

This is a must have book, December 6, 2010
Kathy Spencer's book has been a page-turner. The things that I have learned in the 226 pages will stick with me forever. The advice, motivation, and words of encouragement make this book an enjoyable read. I cannot wait to put into practice the information I learned!
Annemarie Guertin

worth every penny!, December 1, 2010
this book has been one of the best purchases i have made! who doesnt want to learn how to save thousands of dollars a year?!? the read was truly inspiring and cleared up all questions i had about shopping for free. i would recommend this book to anyone who is looking to save money to better their current living situation and wants to help others in the process. thank you kathy spencer and everyone else who worked on creating this great gem!

Amazing!, December 1, 2010
I have been a "couponer" for 6 or 8 months now. Kathy has helped me to take it to the next level. There were things that I thought I was doing well, and she and this book are showing me how to step up my game and do them better and cheaper. I actually just got back from the food pantry where I donated 6 bags of free groceries and 3 bags of free toiletries in order to make more room in my closets for the free things I am getting every week! I really love that she wants you to pay it forward.

MUST READ, December 22, 2010
This is a must read! Why wouldn't you want to save money??? Kathy's book is so informative, hysterical and a bit of a tear jerky. It reads like a novel so it only took me one day to read it!

For the newbie...easy read, December 16, 2010
I got this book after seeing Kathy on TV. I actually went to her website first, found it more then helpful of saving $91 on my first Target shopping trip. I bough the book and found it very easy to read. I think her detail breakdown of actually items with coupons helped me comprehend the deal. I highly recommend this to anyone!

How To Shop For Free, December 15, 2010
Get this book. Save 47% on my first shop using the techniques in this book. Check out girl tried to reject some of my coupon strategies because she didn't know. But because I read this book and gained a better understanding of coupons I stood my ground, got validation from the manager (who knew the rules) and paid $1.98 for two Coffee Mate Creamers (the big ones) that would have cost $6.58 full price.

My bill was $14 and some change. Without this book I would have paid close to $30. And that was a trial run. Be patient because at first the organization is daunting. But I can see how if I stick with it I will be getting things for even less. This book is definitely worth it!

Smart shopping, December 12, 2010
WOW!!! This book is amazing! This book show you the best way to use coupons and yes there are better ways that the standard practice. It also tell you the best times of the year to shop for different things and gives you great tips and idea of to shop and save on everything. Kathy Spencer the author also has a great website howtoshopforfree.net with other great buying tips! A definite MUST BUY!

Great book!, November 24, 2010
This book is a must have. A lot of useful tips and ideas on how to shop for free, and it really does work. So if you like to get stuff for free (who doesn't) this is the book for you. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This addition to the popular Smart Girl's Guide series helps girls gain money smarts. Quizzes, tips, and quotes from girls make learning about money management fun. The book includes a special section with 101 moneymaking ideas. A link at americangirl.com offers girls the opportunity to print business cards, flyers, and other materials to get their moneymaking ideas up and running with style. ... Read more

Reviews

Extremely educational, extremely fun!, August 6, 2006
"A Smart Girl's Guide To Money" is an inspiring book and really teaches girls- or any person- to save money. It also explains about bank accounts, interest, and other important things needed for life. Everyone should read this educational, wise, and fascinating guide.

It also introduces girls to having a job, keeping track of money, and just plain being responsible. That, I think, is a wonderful thing to promote. I loved "A Smart Girl's Guide To Money" the first time I looked into it. Every girl should read it; it's really a remarkable book!

Succint Introduction is a Benefit to Kids and Parents, November 29, 2007
The first thing my daughter, age 11, read was the 101 moneymaking ideas and unfortunately, she was "smart" enough to point out that it really wasn't 101 unique ideas. For example: Decorate tins for Valentines day (#98) is similar to #99, #100 and #101 which are to decorate tins for other special days. Nevertheless, I pointed out that one idea can have different uses... She seemed satisfied with that answer and quickly moved on to "How to get a raise" in the allowance section.

I was impressed at the succinct ways in which ideas are addressed. The book includes:
~ many different emotions associated with money (including friendships and partnerships),
~ how everyone's personality is different (creating a different spending style)
~ values of money (good or bad purchases and needs or wants)
~ budgeting (including plastic money, use of checks with ledger entry, and types of investments)
~ a few quizzes such as one to figure out what type of work is best for you

Don't expect a lot of heavy discussion and explanations. As I said, the text is succinct, even to the point where you may need to add some parent explanations. Parent involvement is a good thing though, because the sooner you discuss finances with your child, the better off he or she will be.

Every girl should have this book!, October 1, 2006
This book was awesome! It talked about saving, spending wisely, credit cards, starting a business and much more! I got this book and it helped me so much! I also use it as a reference book. I think every girl should have it. Go American Girl!

GREEN is always in style!, February 10, 2008
Money is such a simple thing, but the way we earn it, save it, spend it, owe it, etc. is a very complex thing, indeed.

A Smart Girl's Guide to Money is an exceptionally well done book aimed at a young audience -- hopefully before they make the uninformed miscalculations that drive an alarming number of Americans into debt, sometimes before they graduate from school.

How wonderful that American Girl has combined both survival skills and entertainment to benefit their target audience! Well done!

Where was this book when I was a kid?, January 28, 2009
I love this book. It teaches in an easy way all the fundamentals of handling money that a child should begin to learn by 9 or 10. And it even makes the youngster feel empowered by sharing many tips and ideas on starting one's own business. This type of empowererment is so important for building self-esteem and resiliency. This guide is a must. Although it is put out as a girl's guide, the messages are universal and brothers should be encouraged to read it also. I am always impressed by the quality of book and the timely topics handled by American Girl books.

Incredible!, November 25, 2008
My daughter read this book within two days. I can't believe how much it has made her aware of money and how to spend it (or not!). She is already making better choices (and saving more). Wonderful book!

Smart Girl's Guide Review, May 14, 2007
My daughter's love this book. Although it doesn't give a "how to" on budgeting, it does give a solid understanding of how to make and save money by being careful on what to spend their money on.

Helped Give My Daughter some Ideas, June 1, 2008
My daughter has been asking about ways to make money for the last couple of weeks, so I decided to get her this book. It gave her some ideas and encouraged her to look for more ideas on her own.

Girl Book, January 18, 2008
Does your young lady know the value of money? How do you teach her to make money work for her is wonderfully expressed in this book. Preteens(and all of us) need to know how to live on what money they have and refrain from debt and overspending ..a life-style habit can begin early when the young girl knows expectations of her in regard to money.

Bought this for a cousin, July 20, 2010
Not sure. I bought this for a cousin of mine. It has to be great though because it's an American Girl book. ... Read more

Editorial Review

If you work nonstop without a break...worry about offending others and back down too easily...explain too much when asked for information....or "poll" your friends and colleagues before making a decision, chances are you have been bypassed for promotions and ignored when you expressed your ideas.Although you may not be aware of it, girlish behaviors such as these are sabotaging your career!

Dr. Lois Frankel reveals why some women roar ahead in their careers while others stagnate.She's spotted a unique set of behaviors--101 in all--that women learn in girlhood that sabotage them as adults.Now, in this groudbreaking guide, she helps you eliminate these unconscious mistakes that could be holding you back--and offers invaluable coaching tips you can easily incorporate into your social and business skills.If you recognize and change the behaviors that say "girl" not "woman", the results will pay off in carrer opportunites you never thought possible--and in an image that identifies you as someone with the power and know-how to occupy the corner office. ... Read more

Reviews

Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mist, March 17, 2004
This book has been all that I hoped for and more. The book, in a nutshell, basically says that to get ahead in life, in career, in everything, women need to stop acting like little girls.

Replete with examples from Ms. Frankel's consulting clients, this book gives practical, no-holds-barred evaluations of such behaviours as feeding people at the office, working too hard, asking questions instead of making statements, and "asking permission." That last was a revelation to me.

As Ms. Frankel points out, we are all raised in a society that says you should get proper approvals before taking a step---any step. But men learn when to ask and when to just go ahead. Men learn how to apply the rubric "It's easier to get forgiveness than to get permission." Ms. Frankel pointes out that children, not adults, ask for permission to do perfectly rational things. I had never considered how detrimental to my career the habit of asking permission had been. But I decided to give Ms. Frankel's suggestions a try. I went to my boss and said, "I cannot come in on Friday." My boss looked nonplussed. I was petrified, but proud. I had done it. I had Made A Statement instead of Seeking Approval. And he didn't demur. He said, "Okay," and we went on with the day.

If you are feeling frustrated by the glass ceiling, if you feel stuck and can't figure out why you can't get further in your career ambitions (and if you're a female), this book is definitely worth the investment. It opened my eyes to things I did that I never even thought about, things that presented an image of an incompetent child---not a competent, composed, and capable woman. My image is now improving, and yours can too.

Sexual Sabotage, March 17, 2004
How to undo years of socialization of gender roles while working in business? This is a dilemma that women are facing as they push on the glass ceiling. What if the glass ceiling were as much self-created as part of corporate culture? These are some of the issues that Lois Frankel attempts to address in "Nice Girls."

Her analysis of gender training (such as Nice Girls Aren't Loud) are pretty much what I heard as a child. Yet...what a delicate line women must walk, as being tough is interpreted as bitchiness instead of hard-headed business savvy. So here's the problem; Frankel advises worrying less about being liked, advises apologizing sparingly -- not profusely and frequently, but that isn't the same as permission to have a take-no-prisoners attitude. While occasionally being disliked is going to be hard on women who work cooperatively and not in a hierarchical manner, Frankel explains why niceness may short-circuit the path to a deserved top spot.

While Frankel's book has excellent advice about avoiding subtle but destructive body language and practices like apologizing and making declarative statements into questions, as well as failing to blow one's own horn as needed, there are other books that explain the male-dominated playing field such as "Hardball for Women." It's not enough to understand our own failures to mesh into a world where men pretty much make the rules, it's also important to understand the rules thoroughly. "Rules favor the rulemakers, and when they don't, the rules are changed." Look at the troubles of Carly Fiorina and the attitudes towards Martha Stewart to see some of the pitfalls that can trap someone while following the advice in Frankel's book without understanding all the rules or new rules of behavior.

More Than Rosie the Riveter:, March 17, 2004
Men are men. Women are women. Right? The matter of gender is easy enough to establish, but in Lois P. Frankel's book, "Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers" we learn there are underlying mores and premises to follow if women want to be at the top of a company. These rules are unspoken, but Frankel demystifies the process by which some women hurt their success by playing into the cultural roles prescribed to them growing up.

Frankel presumes most women grew up in a home that oppresses women from growing up into full adults. What may have been true for 1954 is not as true today. However, her challenge is still with merit, and in 2004, it crosses the gender barrier. e men should be taking notes from Frankel. There are plenty of little boys among us who need to work as men.

"Rosie the Riveter" ads during WWII encouraged women into the workplace, but often as factory and shipyard works. There was no "Annie the Accountant" or "Sally the CEO" campaigns. Being all you can be means being more than you were as a child. Frankel helps show how women can be more than little girls in the office place, and garner success as a result.

It is important to note that as much as this is an important book for women who esteem to be seen as professional should read, men also should read it. Not every man has reached his potential, and some fall to the same problems, in a masculine variation, as do some women. Fear, exhibited through the lack of initiative and an overborne, unnecessary kindness, holds many people back.

Objective, straightforwardness is much of what Frankel asserts.

Being professional doesn't mean you need to convert into a stomping intimidator, but it does mean being firm, not wincing when rejection is forthcoming, and thinking about more than immediate relationships. It is about getting the job done well, in concert with others, but never becoming weak while doing it all. You have expertise. You have training. You have what it takes.

Although Frankel is a professional coach, her book itself shows a coach is not needed. You need to be in control of your career, without worrying about the next person. Retain your ethics, your integrity and your aplomb, but it is your job to lead the way through your professional life. No parents, no coach, no friends are responsible for this.

I fully recommend "Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers"
by Lois P. Frankel. Follow it up with the classic Dale Carnegie book, "How To Win Friends And Influence People," to learn the other side of the professional relationship balance.

Anthony Trendl
editor, HungarianBookstore.com

A useful guide if you can look past a few flaws, November 20, 2005
"Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office" is a very practical book for any woman interested in moving ahead in her career and getting what she deserves. It is not targeted at any particular segment but instead it contains a lot of helpful, no-nonsense advice no matter where you are in your career, whether you work for a company or have your own business. Even the most accomplished and successful women will undoubtedly find in it some useful suggestions that they can implement to be all the more effective.

The book is organized in a very structured manner. It contains the 101 mistakes, grouped into seven categories:
- How You Play the Game
- How You Act
- How You Think
- How You Brand and Market Yourself
- How You Sound
- How You Look
- How You Respond
At the beginning of the book, you are given an opportunity to take a self-assessment to determine which of these areas you are the strongest in, and where you have opportunities for improvement. That way, you can jump directly to the section where you received the lowest score and begin working from there.

Each of the 101 mistakes is described with specific examples, and followed by a list of suggestions and action items for how you can improve in this particular area. As you go down the list, you can mark the items that you want to work on to make it easy to create an action plan for improvement.

Overall, the style of the book is very direct and frank. The author has many years of career counseling experience, and it shows. She does not mince words in showing you ways in which you sabotage yourself and your success, and gives specific and actionable steps to overcome these limitations. The author also provides a number of reference materials for "further reading", so that if you have an interest in doing further work in a particular area, you can go to these books for more detailed help and strategies.

While I was skeptical at first about how much value I would get out of this book, I was pleasantly surprised to find a few things that I had not considered before. It was also helpful to read a number of things that I already knew I wanted to improve. The specific action items following each mistake are a great way to go from knowing where your limitations are to taking immediate steps to improve them. Having finished the book, I found myself going back and taking notes on the items that I wanted to work on. I now have a fairly comprehensive list of things that I want to tackle, and I'll be able to focus on them one at a time.

Although I really appreciated the value provided by this book, I was also turned off by a few things. As a woman in my late twenties, I felt that a lot of the language in this book smacked of 70s-era feminism. The book also feeds on a lot of women's insecurities, as if being a woman in itself puts you at an unfair disadvantage. I believe that there is a lot to say for the power of femininity, and frankly, advice like "your hair should get increasingly shorter as you get older" is plain ludicrous. (According to this logic, women in their 90s would need to all but shave their heads.) This brings to mind the unflattering images of 80s-era professional manners with masculine haircuts and man-suits. In addition to the feminist message, the tone of the book often came across as somewhat "stuffy" and I had to double-check a couple of times that this book was actually published in the 21st century and not in 1987.

While the tone of the book prevented me from enjoying it as much as I could have (which is why I did not give it five stars), the advice it delivers is definitely sound and on target, and therefore I would recommend it to any woman interested in building a successful career in business.

Excellent source for what it sets out to achieve, September 24, 2004
I'm not in the corporate world, I'm in academics, but I still found these tips apply in the same way both to myself and to women I know.

For what it's trying to do, this is an excellent book. It gives you the possible mistake you may or may not be making, often gives you an example where it occurs, and then offers very specific tips on how to change it. It is actually very empowering. On these merits, the book must be considered a success.

It is also important to point out that some others reviewing this book appear to be reviewing it based upon criteria that it is not setting out to achieve. What the book is NOT meant to do is critique the business world. It is, perhaps, a very depressing situation is that women are often denigrated or not taken seriously simply because they are women and must communicate based on standards set by men (for example, women are socialized to have more of a tendency to apologize, to take responsibility for errors, to turn statements into questions, to ask opinions of the group, which are viewed as "mistakes" in the business world according to this book). If you simply want a book to help you navigate the professional world as it is, this is a great one. If you want to understand the social processes that contribute to creating the standards of professional world and how gender is part of that process, Kathleen Hall Jamison's The Double Bind is a good book.

A handy reference you won't keep in your office!, March 30, 2004
We've had almost four decades of books on women and careers, so it's hard to offer something new. Much of what Frankel offers will seem familiar, yet she packages her advice in easy-to-take bullets. I recommend the book as a reminder -- something to keep reading even when you think you've learned it all, because we all forget.

Although all these tips seem worthwhile, implementing them can be tricky. How, for instance, do we stop being naive? And some mistakes are not only common to both men and women but also have become embedded in unhealthy corporate cultures. Take breaks, she says, and don't pinch company pennies...yet some companies play the "I can work longer than you" game of staying late for "face time," while others will criticize employees who follower her suggestion to call a cab service rather than wait for a bus. And I suspect that, even now, a woman's expenses and time may be scrutinized more than a man's, in some environments.

Frankel's best tips relate to communications: avoid explaining, don't couh statements as questions, don't sit on one foot (I hadn't thought of this one!) and don't tilt your head unless you're inviting openness. I must admit I get irritated with women (AND some men!) who preface questions with, "This is a dumb question, but..." or some other preamble. Just ask! And the networking tips shouldn't be missed, especially a rare example of how networking can save a career.

I was unnerved by the advice to avoid blindly obeying your boss. You can, as she says, end up in legal trouble by obeying a n illegal order. However, if you're in this situation, there's not much you can do and you probably have to leave. Going to your boss's boss, as Frankel suggests, must be done with the greatest care and preferably another offer in hand. Most people still get ahead by making the boss look good and if you can't do this, you probably have to move.

Then again, there are few absolutes in careers or anything else. Women can do worse than to keep this book at home -- not in the office, where one should display only a calm, confident self.

Thinly Veiled Misogyny, September 3, 2005
With all due respect to Dr. Frankel, I am a female professional who has been turned down many times for jobs well qualified for and promotions earned and I'd hoped this book would help me figure out some way to either fix the problem or discover the root cause.
And unfortunately, I walked away from this book feeling allot worse than before.
This prose has a tendency to place 101 `mistakes' strictly on our heads as a kind of `punishment' for basically being feminine. This material will have you worrying about every little thing you do.

Altho she claims that we shouldn't act like men, more than half these mistakes poignantly made several references toward what 'men dont do' so women shouldnt. [not 'grown women dont' so you shouldn't]
As the list went on, I got the distinct impression that there's absolutely no way I could possibly fit into this mould and finding several contradictions to the conviction of just being 'grown up'. It literally knit picks every little mannerism, comment, expression, movement and hairstyle.

The Bottom Line: There were a good 20 recommendations to success. However, we already know every company has it's own unwritten rules and politics. Dr. Frankel recommends right away to get involved in corporate politics. Act like a man.

Packed with Knowledge !, March 1, 2005
Author, coach and psychotherapist Lois P. Frankel explains how traditionally feminine behavior undermines women's career growth. She makes you feel as comfortable as possible while teaching you about "girlish" behavior that holds you back at work. As soon as she describes a problem, she jumps in with doable solutions, some easy, some quite challenging or time-consuming. Frankel shares case histories and offers many applicable techniques. She uses humor deftly and warns the gung-ho not to change everything at once. Now the caveats: Frankel does not grapple with the insoluble problem that women who behave in more forceful, unfeminine ways are often disliked and rejected, a maddening 'Catch 22' if you want to advance. She should warn that even smart tactics rarely help in a truly sexist workplace. She also needs to say that the wish to be liked isn't girlish, feminine or womanly; it is human. Contrary to platitude, other people can hurt and stigmatize you with their verbal abuse or harassment, no matter how strong you are. Still, although she hasn't unraveled every knot, Frankel comes a long way toward helping women diagnose - with a self-assessment checklist - and correct inadvertent mistakes that could be holding them back. We recommend her valuable counsel to women who want to become respected leaders.

101 ways to start undoing the damage, January 27, 2005
Having read this cover to cover, I must say, if someone had been able to point out how segregating it was for me to behave and say some of these little things, I would have gone a lot further and been able to do more with my career. Frankel focuses on the equality factor without bashing men for their shortcomings or making women superheroes, two extremes that would serve no good purpose, especially in large print. We are not saints, and men are not demonized in this VERY helpful tome, and I assure you that having put it to work in the few short months that I have, EVERYTHING has changed at work and for the better. And what has changed the most is not only how I am treated, but how I treat others. The responsibility is on me for how far I go or fall, and Frankel makes that perfectly clear. HOW I am to take that responsibility, she also makes just as clear. What I do with this is up to me, so what I have done is just put it all into practice, and it really does work. For me. But then, I grew up in the deep South where manners and cotillions and pageants are EVERYTHING (in that day and age and in some places still are), and I had no idea just how much of that was so very out of touch and out of place in the workplace.
I would recommend this book to any woman out there who hasn't gotten where she wants to be yet. You can get there, and Dr. Frankel shows you how in simple and straightforward terms with one simple phrase and a whole lot of savvy from experience: "QUIT BEIN' A GIRL!" Thank you, I'd rather be a woman anyday, especially at work, not to mention what it teaches my daughter, as I really want her to grow up knowing her worth is not based on being a "girl". And like the other reviewers I've seen here, I agree that more men should read this, because quite frankly, many of them just don't get it YET. But THEY WOULD if they took the time to read and really pay attention. I could go on, but why. Read it, it's worth it. Thank you Dr. Frankel for the smart tools that have helped change my life (I got the promotion last week--know why? As someone told me, "you got the professional manner I knew you had in you to come to the surface at last.") and I hope this helps anyone else in need or doubt.

A male who agrees!, April 20, 2004
My wife brought this book home and I took a peek. Yes, this author hits the nail on the head. Women in the workplace too often look for approval from others and when they don't do something right, apologize too quickly. Guys are naturally competitive and don't expect apologies. We're into using strengths and opportunities to the max as we move forward. If you are looking to others for approval, this book is for you. For the mental software to be your best and how to make the most of any personal or work situation, read Optimal Thinking: How To Be Your Best Self. When you use Optimal Thinking, you optimize yourself, others and your results regardless of your gender or your circumstances. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The million-copy bestseller is finally in paperback!

In this groundbreaking book, Suze Orman, the nation’s go-to expert on all things financial, investigates the complicated, dysfunctional relationship women have with money.

With her signature mix of insight, compassion, and soul-deep recognition, Suze Orman equips women with the financial knowledge and emotional awareness to overcome the blocks that have kept them from acting in the best interest of their money–and of themselves. At the heart of the book is The Save Yourself Plan: a streamlined five-month program that delivers genuine long-term financial security. But what’s at stake is far bigger even than money–it’ s about every woman’s sense of who she is, what she deserves, and why it all begins with the decision to save yourself.

In addition to The Save Yourself Plan, you’ ll find inside

• a thoughtful analysis of the causes and effects of reckless financial behavior
• a persuasive argument for change that is free of shame and blame
• the 8 qualities of a wealthy woman
• a challenge to value yourself fully in all aspects of your life
• new information to help you grasp the impact of recent economic changes on your life right now and for the long term
• a thrilling, inspiring depiction of what it means to be in control of your financial destiny

Download Suze Orman’s free Money Tool iPhone applicaton in the iTunes store.
... Read more

Reviews

It Works, March 1, 2007
First of all, I like Suze Orman because her previous books have actually helped me go from not much money to a nice nest egg in an amazingly short time. Her advice works. She encourages you to ask yourself and your spouse the right questions--and I was really surprised at the answers sometimes. I even went on to become a financial advisor for others because of the knowledge and experience I gained from Orman's first book. And, even though I have been a financial advisor, I still bought this book. Why? For one thing, it has current information about laws and changes that will happen as far in the future as 2010. And for another, the large majority of people who came to me for advice were women. Women who had been suddenly divorced or widowed and who didn't know what to do. That is NOT the time to have to take a crash course in finances. But, that's usually what it takes.

"Women and Money" is loaded with action steps that anyone can do. This latest book is divided into 8 chapters, including "For Women Only", "Imagine What's Possible", "No Shame, No Blame", "You Are Not On Sale", "The 8 Qualities of a Wealthy Woman", "The Save Yourself Plan", "The Commitments", and "Say Your Name". These chapter titles do not indicate how much real information is given--this is not just an "ideas to get you started" book. Orman gives a month by month description of things for women to do to put themselves in a good financial position. She has boxed information entitled, "I Would Be Thrilled If You..." and then gives specific things to do. She also has an Action Plan for each month of her 5 month plan. And, there is an opportunity to open an account and save for a year, after which you would be given $100 (assuming you follow the plan--which is not hard!) She's already found a way to make you more money! (The offer is good between the dates of 2/27/07 and 3/31/08)

It's not that hard to do and it works. It really does. Thank you again, Suzy!

Come on LADIES - You can do it - and THANK YOU SUZE!!!, March 11, 2007

Suze Orman is right on track with this overdue, and badly needed book directly aimed at women who in Suze's words are dysfunctional about MONEY. The same ladies that can earn doctorate degrees in esoteric subjects just shut their eyes when it comes to money. Although Suze takes shots at what the reasons might be behind this behavior, whether it's upbringing, cultural, or anything else, it doesn't really matter.


What matters to Suze is DEALING WITH THE PROBLEM, and does she deal with it. In this entertaining, easily read book, Suze will teach you to EXECUTE SOLUTIONS to your money problems. I have to tell you, after spending 35 years in the money business myself, this best-selling author is spot on accurate - it's about EXECUTING. It's no longer about thinking about your money issues; it's about DOING SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR MONEY ISSUES.


The author explains precisely what it is you have to do, and she does it in a motivational way, without laying blame or shame on the reader. This is a crucial point. Women and men for that matter feel bad enough about the financial position they may have placed themselves in. It's the old concept of should have, could have, would have coming home to haunt us. I should have done that. I could have done this. I would have done that.


Jettison the blame, and get out of that game. You need to get a grip on yourself and follow Suze's moves. They are well thought out. Here are a few to take a look at.


1) You need an account of your own. Ladies whether you are married, divorced, single, or widowed, you need an account in your name, that you can call your very own.


2) To do this Suze has arranged with TD AMERITRADE, the online brokerage firm that if you fund an account with 12 monthly consecutive automatic electronic deposits of $50 or more, in the 13th month the brokerage firm will deposit $100 in your account as a gift, and an incentive to open the account. Although it's not in the book, the reason why the firm would do this is because on average it cost the firm $200 in advertising to secure an account. It's actually a good deal for them, and a better deal for you, because it will get you started. You save $600 over a year, and they add a $100. Ladies - GO FOR IT. Even if your husband is the President of the bank, get an account in your own name.


3) The heart piece of the book is a five-month plan that gets you back in control of your financial destiny. Yes, we both know the real question is what were you thinking when you allowed yourself to get out of control, but that really doesn't matter. What matters is today FORWARD, not looking BACKWARD. In this five-month plan Suze gives you the KEY TASKS that you have to get done. It's a number of things, and not fifty things. The key here, and it's not quite hitting you in the face is to CLOSE ON SOMETHING. This is crucial. Don't do eight things at once, and a little bit of each thing. You need desperately to bring things to closure. Get one thing FINISHED, COMPLETED, PUT TO BED, and then move on.


4) "Learn to say NO to people". Suze's right on this one. You have to put YOU first. Think about it, for many of us, there are many others who are counting on us. Women especially since they are nurturing by instinct, tend to put themselves second to the people they take care of. Here's what you have to get into your soul. Unless YOU ARE OKAY, you are not going to be here, to help everyone else be okay. Think of what they tell you to on the airplane in an emergency when the air masks drop down. You put the mask on your mouth first, and then you put a second one on the child's mouth. You have to be okay for everyone else to be okay. It's not selfish; it's what you need to do.


5) Make sure you read the "You are not on sale" chapter. Many women tend to under price their services, and also allow themselves to be paid a lesser salary for equivalent work done by a male. You need to get out of this loop, and quick. Suze shows you how.


6) Suze's advice on credit cards is completely accurate. If you are going to win in a system that is stacked against you, than you must learn the rules in order to know how to work the system. As an example once a credit card is open, never shut it down because creditors like to see long-term open lines of credit. This is the type of information, you will figure out on your own.



In conclusion, this is a FABULOUS book for you to get back on track, and in control of YOUR OWN LIFE FINANCIALLY. Women have just as much brainpower as men. It is inexcusable that many find themselves in the position they are currently in, but understandable too. After all what courses are given while growing up in managing money. They don't give us a course in human relationships or marriage either; maybe that's why the divorce rate is 50%. If we don't learn what we need to learn in school or from our mentors, than we have to learn it on our own - Suze is a good place to start, and GOOD LUCK.


Richard Stoyeck

Pros and Cons, March 3, 2007
First, a response to the person who wrote that she was "very disappointed" because readers "have to buy Suze's book and put in a special code to participate in the Ameritrade Save Yourself program". She felt this was duplicitous on Suze's part, after claiming she doesn't get "a penny from Ameritrade" but she DOES benefit from the required purchase of her book (in order to use the special code).
While I see her point, I think she is missing the larger picture...and that is that more Americans, including women, need to start saving more. Secondly, the Ameritrade offer is a good one, with a fair interest rate 4.59% as of this writing) and a bonus of $100 at the end of 12 months (more than enough for readers to cover the cost of the book and still make a nice profit).
Finally, the book and the program encourage readers to get into the habit of saving regularly, which I feel more than offsets any other issues people may have with the book and offer.
Yes, Suze profits from the book itself but who would expect her to write a book and NOT make a profit? On the other hand, readers have a great opportunity to save money and get a financial reward for doing so. Plus, the REST of the info in the book is solid, including the special challenges women face when it comes to money. All in all, I think the balance is in Suze's favor and readers will benefit from buying this book.
On balance, a LOT to be gained from for the price of this book ($14.50 as of this writing).

New Possibilities!, November 1, 2008
I never imagined in a million years I would pick up a book on personal
finance. I had an idea that investments and numbers were just too hard,
something I'd never understand. Reading Suze Orman's "Women & Money"
turned that notion on its head. Her warm, funny and no-nonsense book is
not only informative and empowering, it is also really enjoyable to
read. While she offers plenty of detailed and helpful financial advice,
the underlying theme throughout -and what really impacted me- is that
control of your financial destiny begins with you. How you treat your
money is an extension of how you treat yourself. Her 'Save Yourself
Plan' is about letting go of the old excuses that say 'I can't' and
letting go of the shame and blame of past decisions; it's about
empowering yourself with knowledge and starting fresh from exactly where
you are in this moment.

A wonderful companion book to Ms. Orman's that expands on these
ideas is Ariel and Shya Kane's Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life. Their inspiring approach to
living in the moment (instead of in a continuous loop of worry about
the past and the future) gives you the tools to dissolve those old,
limiting stories about yourself ("I'm not good with numbers!") and step
into a life that is easy, alive, and full of possibility.

A Solid Book on Finance, May 4, 2007
Suze Orman has written a number of books about personal finance. Readers will find that Women & Money covers a lot of the same ground as previous books. This is because the author is attempting to take those same basics and structure them in a way that will make it easier to use it in taking action.

Essentially, the author feels that there's a trend among women she meets to be developing very successfully in their professional and personal lives, but to remain uneasy when it comes to anything related to money. She spends several chapters discussing the attitudes that she feels may be at the root of this issue, and then moves on to her usual financial advice.

The best part of this book is its structure. All of the content is kept simple, with alerts given whenever more detail is provided on her website. Likewise, once she moves on to setting a financial plan, each step gives a very clear and short list of things that are absolutely critical to do. The general philosophy of the writing and the layout is to be as clear as possible and make it as easy to take action as possible, and leave all of the detail beyond the bare necessities to another location in order to avoid overwhelming the readers.

If your personal finances are in good shape and you're already familiar with things like Roth IRAs and the concept of universal default, most of the material in this book is likely to be a review. Some of it will still be new, since she covers some recent (and upcoming) laws, but overall this isn't a dramatic departure from what you'd find in her other books. You still may find it worthwhile due to the action-oriented layout, and the extra chapters that attempt to help women deal with mental blocks and hesitation they might have about taking control of their money.

If you have financial problems or you really don't know much about money and investing, you'll find this book to be a gentle and clear introduction that takes pains to avoid confusing you or wasting your time on more detail than you absolutely need.

Speaks to me!, March 3, 2007
Suze's latest is designed to get women to move past the point of good intention and into action. There is a reason this book has incredible word-of-mouth (I heard about it from three different friends who saw the ad in O magazine): Suze has put her finger on why it is that women who can do everything for everyone still can't get it together when it comes to their money. The stories of her friends -- successful women who were in debt, couldn't bring themselves to ask for a raise, or let documents sit unsigned on their desk -- rang so true to me. I let an IRA sit in cash for years because I didn't know I was supposed to choose investments for it and then didn't know which investments to choose. This book told me exactly what to do with that money -- I only wish I knew this years ago. Others can make snide comments on this site and take their shots but no one can argue with the fact that Suze tells it straight and has helped so many men and women with her no-nonsense approach. You want to take issue with the TD Ameritrade offer? You want to pass up $100 and a great interest rate because you think there's "something in it" for Suze? Do so at your own risk. This is a great offer and anyone would be a fool to pass it up. Brava, Suze -- and thank you so much.

We've been waiting a long time for a book like this one, March 5, 2007
Oh, what I would have given for this book the day I started my first job!! Absolutely everything a woman needs to know about handling money on her own is in this guide. Suze goes through the essential must-knows and talks in plain Enlish about complex financial terms. She even recommends how exactly to allocate your 401(k) and Roth IRA contributions, which I found incredibly honest and useful. Suze is never condescending, which I appreciated because these are the lessons no one ever gave us growing up. I finished the book in less than a week and have already started checking things off my financial to-do list (there's a great online component through her website to keep you on track). Thank you, Suze, for putting into words the things we all ought to know and for making it seem do-able.

This came along at the perfect time for me!, February 28, 2007
I am one of those women who is always letting my husband deal with all the money stuff. I have always felt fine just getting my little allowance and going on my happy way. My inner voice has been telling me something is wrong with this picture (this "inner voice" may have been made louder by my deepening yoga practice over the past few months!).
This book has opened my eyes to how I need to take some power for myself, and ultimately how no one can take care of me but me.
My husband is actually happy because I am finally taking an interest in our expenses.

Every women should take a look at this book.

Believe Me, Women Need This Advice, March 13, 2007
I write and edit financial books for a living (not any of Suze Orman's) and the advice in this book is very basic, it's true. However, I have a doctorate and most of my girlfriends are highly-educated professionals and very few of them have healthy relationships with money. Their level of financial literacy is staggeringly low and they carry a lot of shame about it. They hide it from everyone, and are terrified that they'll be "found out" for their ignorance. This book is written for women just like them: women who won't admit they don't know what diversification means, and think real estate is the only place to put their money. When you read the book, you'll find out that my girlfriends are not alone. If you want to learn the basics, and get inspired along the way, buy this book. And while you're at it, get one for your mother, daughter, and best friend. You'd be amazed at how many fabulously successful, brilliant, creative women are hiding the secret that they're financially illiterate. You can help the women in your life by not judging them and kindly recommending this book.

Be in Control of Your Financial Destiny, August 22, 2007
A friend of mine recommended that I read "Women & Money - Owning the Power to Control Your Destiny" by Suze Orman and I am really glad she did! This book is about taking control of your financial future. She recounts instances from her life as a way to show how she didn't let her history control her financial destiny. She promotes the idea that a person can only start from where they are. One motto she repeatedly says is "No Shame, No Blame."
Furthermore she explains Roth IRA's, FICO scores and other financial terms so that we can learn how they can be beneficial to our financial freedom. If you want to be inspired, empowered to control your finances and not be afraid to be a woman who has money - read this book!

If you are interested in the writings of Suze Orman, I highly recommend the authors of "How To Create a Magical Relationship" and "Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: A Book About Instantaneous Transformation", Ariel and Shya Kane. They take the focus of "living in the moment" to all aspects of your life - financial, business and personal. They too emphasize that you are not your story; even if you have had a horrible past it doesn't have to control your present or your destiny.
... Read more

Editorial Review

Completely Revised with Updated Tax Law Information, Income-Building Strategies, Online Resources, Success Stories, and More
With hundreds of thousands copies in print around the world, Smart Women Finish Rich, by renowned financial advisor David Bach, has shown women of all ages and backgrounds how to take control of their financial future and finish rich.Whether you’re working with a few dollars a week or a significant inheritance, Bach’s nine-step program gives you tools for spending wisely, establishing security, and aligning money with your values.Plus, in this completely revised and updated edition, David Bach includes critical new long-term investment advice, information on teaching your kids about money, Internet resources, and new ways to attract greater wealth–personal and financial–into your life.
... Read more

Reviews

Excellent investment book, May 10, 2002
I am a 29 year old mother of a two year old girl and my husband and I have our own business. I knew absolutely nothing about investing but I felt that we were getting older and we needed to start thinking about saving for the future. This book has opened up a new world to me. We have very little money and I was scared to risk or needlessly spend what we do have. This book has shown me how to secure our financial future. Before this book I never even considered getting life insurance. After reading this book, the first thing I did was go out and buy a term life policy so my daughter will be protected in case anything happens to my husband or myself. My insurance agent was so impressed at what I knew about life insurance that he told me that 95% of the people he sold insurance to did not have my insurance buying knowledge. I learned everything I knew about life insurance in 20 minutes from reading this book. This book lays out in terms that anyone can understand how to protect your family and make your dreams come true. Being a small business owner I especailly appreciated Davids advice for those of us who are self employed. The best part of this book is the section that shows you do not have to be rich to save and invest. Even those of us with modest incomes can achieve our financial goals. It's all about make wise spending choices. The wisest choice of all would be to buy this book! I can't really say enough good things about it. The only part missing for me was a section on investing for college. I was looking for some advice on how to invest for my daughter's college education. I also bought Suze Orman's book Road to Wealth and this topic is covered quite thoroughly in there. Actually whenever I have a financial decision to make I read the topic in David's book and then follow up with Suze's for a second opinion. They always seem to agree in their own ways and I feel like I am making the best decision I can to secure my family's financial future.

I'm FINALLY motivated to put my financial house in order, November 6, 2004
I'm turning 40 next year, and I've done a fair share of reading/research on retirement planning -- not a lot, mind you, but a fair bit. Much of it was dry, boring, or just plain incomprehensible. As a result, my savings and investing were haphazard (at best), and my record keeping was, frankly, pathetic.

"Smart Women Finish Rich" has motivated me like nothing else has. I don't know if it's because it's easier to understand and doesn't through a lot of jargon around, or if it's because Bach is so personable and seems genuinely interested in his readers.

What really lit the fire underneath me though were the various charts he had illuminating the value of compounded interest, using time to your advantage, etc. Now, this is something we all "know" at the intellectual level, but the way he presented it was enough to get me off my rear and working on putting my financial house in order.

In the past several days, I have set up my filing system, reviewed my IRA account, requested and reviewed my credit report, opened an account for my "emergency fund" and scheduled automatic deposits, and made a plan for paying down credit card debt. In the next week I'll get the ball rolling to contribute to my employer's 401(k) and get estate planning done for myself and my husband.

I can't say enough good things about how this book has helped me put my financial priorities in order. The reduction in my anxiety level over money is amazing. Well worth it!

Women can talk about mutual funds over lunch, too!, July 29, 1999
I'm a boomer and an artist, and I steadfastly avoid reading "how-to" books about where I "should-be" in my savings. Debentures sounds so much like dentures, that I steer clear of the whole Wall Street world. But David Bach's book, Smart Women Finish Rich, not only penetrated my "artistic curtain," but actually changed my woeful banking habits. His book is clear and precise, underscoring how any woman can be rich, regardless of salary. Kind of "it's-about-savings-stupid" love tap to the wallet side of your brain. Not only do I have an idea what mutual funds, bonds, stocks, T-Bills and T-Notes are, I've put together, for the first time in my life, a portfolio. And it doesn't stop there. Bach writes clearly about health and life insurance policies, and I'm currently reexamining my own. How can a person who comparison shops for canned tomatoes not do the same for insurance and pocket the difference? If you need help getting started on a savings program, don't miss this wise financial primer, written by a guy who handles portfolios worth more than half a billion dollars each year.

It's helpful, yet cheesy, May 3, 2000
I learned a LOT from this book. I didn't know much of anything about investing until I picked it up; know I feel foolish for the years I spent not really knowing what a mutual fund was (it's not really that complicated). Bach is good at clearly explaning the issues without relying heavily on jargon. And the book is full of astonishing charts & graphs detailing how a little bit of savings, invested early enough and wisely, can become a huge pile of money. He also gives tidbits of very helpful advice about related issues, like planning for retirement (start early!), creating a living trust, and insurance needs.

I recommend this book for women (or men) who have little or no knowledge of financial planning. His advice is very basic and simple. It's an easy read, too - I finished it in about 2 hours.

He breaks up his chapters into life stages - reasonably, he advises different strategies for a women in her 20s than for a women in her 50s. I'm young so I read the entire book avidly, but I suspect that an older reader might benefit more from a book directed exclusively to her needs.

One thing really irritated me about Bach's style: he continually gives these (obviously fake) examples of women who burst into his office crying and in the poor house because they acted contrary to his advice. If you have a very low tolerance for simple-minded anecdotes, look elsewhere.

Engaging, helpful, a MUST read!, February 6, 2004
I bought this book after seeing David Bach on Oprah Winfrey. I have, for a long time, been wanting to save money but it never seemed to work. I worried about my future and wanted desperately to invest my money so that when I retired one day I wouldn't have to worry if Social Security would still be around. Of course, I thought you had to have thousands of dollars to do this & so I thought I was hopeless. I bought this book thinking it might give me some ideas, that I would flip around to different chapters & only read what I thought I had to. I was WRONG! David's writing grabs you from the first page. I was actually enjoying reading a financial book like you would a good novel! Not only does the book lay out your options in an easy format but he tells funny & engaging stories from his past that relate to the subject. In just a few nights I found out that I can save and/or invest with as little as $50, learned all there was to know about IRA's, 401k, Mutual Funds, Bonds, and my best options for a person my age. Also given are website addresses to go for more information or to begin saving right from your home. By the time I was done reading I was excited & couldn't wait to begin. David not only has the skill to teach you to make your life better financially, but to get you excited about it! Whether you are 20 or 50 years old, David shows you what to do, and I am thankful he did!

You'll only get out of this book what you put in., October 3, 2004
A couple of reviewers blasted this book as being useless rehashed financial advice. I'll bet you anything that those reviewers didn't really give the book a chance. I know because I almost didn't, and initially I had the same reaction as they did.

I'm an intelligent woman, my father and grandmother both taught me about investing growing up...also, as another reviewer mentioned, there are some pretty hokey "personal accounts" used to illustrate lessons, that I could have done without. I bought the book at the airport for something to read on the plane and if I wasn't forced into a situation where I had nothing else to read, I probably never would have made it past the first couple of chapters. I'm so so so very glad that I did.

You can't just skim this book for the bits you think are relevant to you; you have to really get into it. Read it from cover to cover, then go back and start working on the charts like the "values ladder" and "Goals for Designing a Proactive Life" worksheet. Why? Because they make you look long and hard at your own value system, visualize the future you want for yourself, and then write down specific and measurable steps to take to get there...no matter how modest those step may be initially.

I don't make a lot of money, and despite what my father and grandma taught me I've accrued almost 15 grand in credit card debt, not to mention college loans. I work in a field that doesn't really inspire me because I've always wanted to be a full-time artist.

Until I read this book that was just a far off dream. I never really thought about what it would take for me to get there. As Bach says, until you write a goal down with specific steps as to how you will accomplish it, it's not a goal, just a wish that probably won't come true.

It's only been a week and I've already learned so much about myself as well as my finances and I'm happy to say that I've worked out a plan where I will be able to quit my current job and work as a full-time artist within the next ten years. To say this book has changed my life is an understatement. Like many other reviewers before me, I'm buying copies for everyone I know.

Don't let divorce be your wake up call!, January 17, 2000
I saw this book in a local business publication. I went out and bought it the same week. I am the woman David writes about. I thought I had a good grasp on the finances, after all I balanced the check book, helped pay bills, knew where the money was, etc... But invest? No, my prince charming took care of that for "our" retirement, while I spent my money on daycare and the children's needs. I had a strong marriage with a husband who was looking out for us. Well, prince charming left me 4 days after my 30th birthday and 5 weeks after the birth of our second child. I am left with two children under the age of 4. I have learned soooooo much from this book. I have pitched it to all my friends that will listen. Women MUST save their OWN money. It is incredible what I have learned so far. I've signed up for 401K and written out all my values and goals. I've even discussed "savings" with my 4 year old son. I plan to buy this book for birthday gifts to my friends. Do yourself a huge service and READ THIS BOOK! Women empower yourselves. This is easy to read, follow and put into action. I now know what mutual funds, bonds, stock, and IRA's are. It's not hard and knowledge is power. Good luck!

Lisa L. Siavelis - Avid Reader & Writer, August 22, 2003
Absolutely the best financial and inspirational book I have ever read. This is a very personable, well written, understandable, humerous educational read. A man writing for women, where did this guy come from?
I enjoyed the fact David shared with us his own personal experiences, making him immediately "real" and trustworthy to the reader. The author speaks of his grandmother, Rose which instantly allows the reader to recognize this author as a sincere, honest and heart felt man.
I was so impressed by the author that I have put my complete trust in him and have decided to follow his advice to the "T". This is an easy step by step book that anyone can follow. I will keep you posted with the results.
This is a MUST READ for every woman, therefore I have purchased one for my boss, co-worker and sister. I sat my mother (who is visiting me from California) down with Smart Women Finish Rich, she's hooked and she is not even a reader. In addition, I have also ordered Smart Couples Finish Rich for my husband and I to get busy on our plan together.
I have been so uplifted and inspired by this author that I am sharing the good news with every woman I know. I visited the David Bach web-site and signed up to receive his personal newsletter. David shares in his newsletter similar to the way he shares in his book; you feel as if you know him personally and that he truly cares about his audience. The newsletter contains updated information concerning financial matters directly from the author, so be sure to sign up. The site also offers resource information and contact e-mail addresses. I am astonished with the personal response I receive each time I e-mail with a question or comment- What an actual response?
David shares with his audience "how to" and how he did, he offers excellent encouragement and inspiration.
David Bach Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your contributions and sharing your wealth of knowledge with us. Keep up the good work!

Worth its weight in gold, February 26, 2005
This book was recommended by my financial planner, and it is the best book I have read on the subject. I bought it only a couple months ago and have already started to see thousands of dollars in savings. The best thing about the book is that it gives you the confidence to be able to make financial decisions on your own, especially as a woman, for the benefit of the entire family. I would recommend this book for every woman.

AN AMAZING BOOK, April 15, 2002
I LOVED this book, It really helped me put my financial and future life in order. I am 33 and am a model and have been sort of investing in my future but wasn't sure if I was on the right track. I had tried to read many other books on financial success and ask financial advisors my questions but was always confused and thought the books were a snore. I picked up Davids book at a bookstore and literally could not put it down. It was so insightful, and easy to read, it has many real life instances that we as women can relate to and helps you understand in plain english how to make the most of your life. I know now what to do with my investments and how to make the most of my financial and personal life. I have bought this book for many friends and family, they all love it and are on their way to retiring rich!!!!
Whether you are married or single you as a woman should know everything about your finances and this is a great and easy way to get started on the right track!! It is hard to explain how many ways this book can help your life, its just the best book you could ever read for your present and future wellbeing!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

"When money is plentiful, this is a man's world. When money is scarce, it is a woman's world." Unearthed in a 1932 Ladies Home Journal, this quote is the call to arms that begins PEACE AND PLENTY, Sarah Ban Breathnach's answer to the world's-- and her own personal-- financial crisis. As only Ban Breathnach can, she culls together this compendium of advice, deeply personal anecdotes, and excerpts from magazines, books, and newspapers-- particularly those of the Great Depression-- to inspire readers who are mired in today's financial difficulties.

Focusing on her own personal path, Sarah Ban Breathnach will relate never-before revealed details about how she fell from the financial top to the bottom. Readers will immediately see how deeply she understands the plight of those trying to maintain a happy and comfortable home, while at the same time not even knowing if they will be able to make the mortgage to keep that home.

Sarah has proved to be the voice of comfort for years to women who are spiritually bankrupt, and now she will reach to those who are financially strapped, showing them how to pull themselves out of their psychic and fiscal crises while providing deep comfort and reassurance throughout. ... Read more

Reviews

A Spiritual, Authentic and Powerful Book, December 14, 2010
If you are a woman and you want to understand your relationship with money, Peace and Plenty is the book for you. It is authentic writing at its best. Sarah Ban Breathnach, author of the hugely successful Simple Abundance, once again weaves wonderful words together as she addresses the serious and important subject of money and a woman's relationship with it. "Heaven likes to help those trying to help themselves" and "'Having enough' is the destination for all of us on the Peace and Plenty path." I think that's one of the best parts of this book: its spiritual essence resonates with us because Sarah Ban Breathnach's authentic and faith-filled voice touches our very souls page after page.

I loved this book's respectful and humble acknowledgment of the struggles that so many good people undergoing financial stress are experiencing. A sensitive chapter "On Losing Your Job" validates how the loss of personal identity hurts our self-esteem and discourages our spirit. And Sarah doesn't write from the abstract, she has lived the fear and reality of job loss. She also courageously shares her personal stories of loss of finances, home and marriage. These monumental losses could have made Sarah bitter and discouraged her but they have not because she is a believer in the beauty and the bounty of life. Sarah Ban Breathnach focuses instead on places where she is grateful and inspires us to do the same. She is also moving on with the new changes in her life trusting the Creator of a Million Lifetimes to guide her every choice.

In this wonderful book, Sarah Ban Breathnach implores us to create a financial family tree to clarify our attitudes about money. Were your parents big spenders? Were they worried all of the time about money? These questions invite us into the search to understand what money really means to us. Sarah wants us to be honest believing that the truth does indeed set us free.

Sarah Ban Breathnach is every woman's friend, sister and mother. Millions of women look to her for counsel, hope and honesty. They will not be disappointed when they sit down with a hot cup of tea and this latest book, Peace and Plenty, where they will find renewed hope and a true path to financial serenity from a trusted soul companion.

Mary Jane Hurley Brant

This amazing "money-memoir" is a comforting, positive book that will help women everywhere "keep calm and carry on" ..., December 24, 2010
Sarah has been a "rock" for millions of women around the world since she first put her words of wisdom to the page in "Simple Abundance." Her words, for many of us, went far beyond the somewhat simplistic self-help books of the day and her name became almost synonymous with that of the word comfort. One day, as she claims, she was a "freelance writer without a comma in [her] checking account and the next [she] was a millionaire." (p. 20) Today all that money is gone and she feels hesitant to step forward to advise other women, as she claims about "their lives when I've messed mine up so completely." Perhaps, but many who are undergoing their own financial woes want to hear from someone who is experiencing their pain.

Sarah throws some of the blame on that Englishman she married, but frankly she does admit to being a L-O-U-S-Y money manager and never was one. One mistake after another and she practically found herself living on the streets and would have, had it not been for her sister lending her a desk to write this book. She, like many women who have had commas removed from their checking accounts are all starting over, bluntly states, "this starting over from scratch is beginning to wear on my nerves." (p. 68) In this money-memoir Sarah takes a step back, examines the monetary lives of relatives such as Lucy Lyttle Donelly White, her Kentucky grandmother, other relatives, and her own in a desire to find out where she went wrong.

In Sarah's familiar conversational essays you will find snippets of advice, which she is now following, from money wise women of the past and, most importantly offers a mantra to hold to your heart: "Keep calm and carry on." She reflects the pain many women feel when she ponders, "If you are a woman who has prudently planned and carefully saved for your retirement and your children's education, to suddenly lose what you thought was safe is devastating, because you lost more than money, you lost your dreams." (p. 83) Her comforting words of wisdom, gleaned from the world of hard knocks, will make you want to begin to believe in yourself, to pick up and carry on and move forward ... with her, Sarah Ban Breathnach.

This amazing "money-memoir" is a comforting, positive book that will help women everywhere "keep calm and carry on." I'm sure this was a difficult book for Sarah to write as she has to admit being beaten down financially. It was as if she felt quite pained to admit in the later part of the book that, "I've spent the last year in my pajamas writing this book in the corner of my sister's living room." (p. 295) This startling admission is, in my opinion, a very courageous one, yet a labor of love for her readers who have followed her for so many years. It was a book that I savored, reading bits of it every night to glean her bits of wisdom on how we all can pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and continue on in spite of adversity. Sarah says, "So hold on tight to your dreams--they are yours to keep." And so they are. This beautifully written book will make you dream again and help you to put your hopes and dreams into action for a better financial future.


This book courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.

Peace and Plenty: Finding Your Path to Financial Serenity, December 22, 2010
This book is changing my relationship with money. Sarah Ban Breathnach has shared her wisdom, her heart and her soul and,as she did with Simple Abundance, she has let us all know we are in this together.

Peace and Plenty by Sarah Ban Breathnach Peace and Plenty: Finding Your Path to Financial Serenitytook me to a place I wasn't sure I wanted to go. Financial serenity I want, but not if it meant looking at my sordid relationship with money. As I started reading I learned that Sarah's gentle touch would make it fun. She allowed me to see what drives me and without scolding she took me on a journey to find a better way of being with my finances. The exercises throughout the book allowed me to take baby steps into looking at my past behaviors like shopping splurges that resulted in clothes hanging in my closet months later with tags still on them!

It has been a few weeks since I finished reading Peace and Plenty and I have made some good changes. I took to heart the "pin money" exercise where you take your change and put it in a container (mine is a fabric bag with a zipper hanging in my closet) and I have found that my "savings" is growing quickly. I have taken measures to re-cycle possessions in my home and put them to use in other ways. Practical measures for real "spending" issues fill the book as Sarah introduces us to the "Thrill of Thrift".

Most important though is that Peace and Plenty has given me an awareness of an area of my life that affects my mind, my body and my spirit. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to balance their life and at the same time it will help you balance your budget.

Timely - for any woman in your life, December 27, 2010
I realized as I started to read, "Peace & Plenty", Sarah Ban Breathnach's new book, that I was holding my breath. I love "Simple Abundance"so much so my expectations were quite high as I began reading. Very quickly, and with much relief, I exhaled. "Peace & Plenty" is a wonderful book and timely in many ways. I know so many women, close friends and family members, who have struggled financially in these difficult economic times and have witnessed how this struggle has affected their self esteem and well being. Sarah addresses this head on in "Peace & Plenty" and she doesn't write from the perspective of a financial guru but as someone who has suffered financially herself. I was blown away by her honesty and openness in describing her circumstances and her complete lack of self-pity. She writes with courage in describing her situation and also relies on the courage of other women who have gone before. The strategies she shares as suggestions towards realizing financial stability and serenity in this book are intensely practical. I will recommend this book to every woman that I know.

Discovering Financial Peace, December 26, 2010
I was very excited to have a chance to read Peace and Plenty by Sarah Ban Breathnach. I am a devoted reader of another book by the same author, Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy , having found in it much wonderful guidance for living life fully and with joy. In light of the world's (and my own) present economic situation and knowing Sarah's amazing ability to hone in on the real issues, I was anxious to read her thoughts on finding the path to financial serenity.

As with many of her books, in Peace and Plenty we find Sarah right there in the trenches with us as she relates with astonishing openness the downturn of her own economic situation and the plans she has to bring herself back to financial wellness. It has often seemed to me that Sarah writes for all of us--the things we feel but don't, or can't, put into words. I continuously find myself wondering how she got into my head! Such is the case with Peace and Plenty. She understands where we've been and has positive ideas to help us get where we want to be.

Among other things, Sarah:
encourages us to nurture, appreciate and have patience with ourselves
reminds us we're worthy to live pleasant and contented lives
gives us tips on managing the psychological roadblocks that keep us from peace with our finances
stresses the importance of making our plan fit our personality and sensibilities
validates us while informing us that reinventing ourselves takes tremendous courage and energy

In Peace and Plenty Sarah reminds her readers to take responsibility for their money--to KNOW what is going on with it. She gives us the tools for a life-changing journey, gently nudging us to take wing, blessing us for our courage. Along the way, she promises a "bounty of well-spent moments waiting to be discovered, embraced and cherished". Sarah asks us to treat ourselves gently and reminds us that no matter what our financial situation is today, no matter what mistakes we have made, we should not feel shame. She encourages us to take a hard look at our "financial facts" as we begin to learn what's going on with us and our money.

Once again, Sarah Ban Breathnach makes the dreaming fun and the possibilities seem endless as she helps us find our way, this time toward financial serenity.

Peace and Plenty: Finding Your Path to Financial Serenity, December 26, 2010
Simple Abundance brought us to find our authentic selves with Sarah Ban Breathnach's six transformative principles. On this subsequent journey, Ban Breathnach has launched a new campaign to find "emotional solvency and financial serenity, as you become secure in the knowledge and spiritual truth that peace and plenty shall always be your portion."

At first account, Sarah declares herself as our personal guide on the journey to finding financial serenity. She shares very candidly of her own accounts of fiscal missteps that eventually lead her to financial ruin. The writing of Peace and Plenty, however, is evidence that Sarah Ban Breathnach has emerged from very hostile and denigrating circumstances to share with the world her lessons of renewed hope that all will be well. If the pages of this book could be pricked, I believe it would bleed her soul.

Sarah shares beguiling quotes from best-selling authors of books, magazines and short stories, which we could only dream to read in our lifetimes, with morsels of incredible life truths that will wrench our minds and souls.
Ban Breathnach unveils practical but creative ways to approach our fiscal depravity and in so doing new hope is born to see light at the end of the tunnel. She shares with us that many of our financial woes can go back as far as some of our ancestors. Many centuries later money treatment can be traced to how our forefathers dealt with money.
Not only does Sarah reveal her personal stories, but the miscalculations of other successful actresses, businesswomen and authors in a way that makes us know that those who have achieved worldly success (not just in money, but in fame) can also be brought to their knees when all is lost (money and heart!).

But with a resounding wave of pain and loss, Ban Breathnach resolves that as long as we "keep calm and carry on" we will weather the financial storm. Sarah has the uncanny ability to write what seems to lurch as vague, unformed thoughts from our soul and mind. She takes us on a turbulent journey through her past financial falling to her present enlightened, resolved new beginning. Through the morals of her stories, Sarah guides us with new practical tools and ways of thinking that every woman will appreciate in her "daily round".

In a day when our homes are not our own anymore, Sarah Ban Breathnach reminds us that home is really and truly where the heart is and it will be there that we will start anew!


... Read more

Editorial Review

Read Find Your Strongest Life and discover:

• How to make the most of the role you were born to play
• How to get others to understand who you really are
• The successful strategies of other women like you

Check out what women are already saying about Find Your Strongest Life.

Brooke: When I read the "Ten Myths" that opened the book, I was completely hooked. The statistics are interesting and fresh. I also related to the problem that sets up the book: "Which parts of me should I cut out?" As I read, I could see myself in the Marcus's big-picture analysis and statistics. The early part of the book made me anticipate a breakthrough. And Marcus delivered. Overall, he explains a woman's dilemma perfectly . . . in fresh terms with a unique spin. The main ideas in each chapter were so engaging. Chapter 6 in particular is worth the price of the book. I have already started looking for strong moments in my life, and I want to tell every woman I know to do the same.�It is definitely life-changing.

Rebecca:�It was really good. It was awesome. And to be honest, perfect timing for my life. I'm REALLY in that place. I can't tell you how badly I've been depressed for the last several months just trying to figure out what to do differently so I'm not so miserable. On one hand, I'm grateful I have a job still. I have a mortgage and bills and all that. But on the other hand...I can't continue to work at a job that gets me nowhere, is not rewarding, not challenging, and mentally drains me. I really have started avoiding my family because I've become so rude and snippy. It's a bad cycle. BUT...God willing this year (sooner than later) I will be able to put this behind me and do what I love :) Even if it's making half as much money. Thanks for thinking of me to read this. I needed it!

Delaney: I was on a plane as I finished reading the manuscript. I was going to be with my daughter who is a law student. As I finished the pages, Marcus helped me gain a new understanding of myself that stood out like a neon sign: I am the person who helps others build infrastructure, get through situations ,and set everything right.� It goes beyond motherhood. I am an event planner by birth. I see big pictures and the components necessary to get from vision to execution.� The content helped me to reframe my own thinking. Very helpful. I'm excited to take the online test and see which�role I'm born to play.
�
Jennifer: As a working mother, I found the�concept of the book fascinating.� There are daily struggles of trying�to balance�being the perfect wife, mother, and employee, and the book helped me truly understand how to navigate all those demands.

Reviews

Want to know why women have more but enjoy it less?, August 3, 2009

More strength-based snake oil, October 4, 2009
I do not recommend this book. The title leads you to believe that Marcus Buckingham applies his "decades of research" to once again tell us how simply finding your strength will make you a happier and more successful woman. Don't fall for it - he doesn't prove anything close.

I volunteered to read and review this book as part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Bloggers Team. In all fairness, I must reveal that I have read another one of Buckingham's books, First Break All the Rules, and I hated it also. Buckingham is extremely well known for his other books on strengths, and he is a very good writer, so I predict this book will also sell very well.

The book is divided into three parts. Part I is entitled "Something's got to give" and details the unique challenges and stressors that women face. This part is actually pretty good. He makes some very important points in this section, the most important being that "over the last few decades, women have become less happy with their lives, and as women get older, they get sadder" (p. 21). That conclusion appears to be supported by independent research.

Buckingham's explanation for this is that women are not focusing their attention "the challenge of all the different roles you play is not that you don't have enough hours in the day. The challenge of all these roles is that during the hours you choose to work you have too many different things going on at any one time to focus properly no each of them. Your time isn't stretched; your attention is." (pp. 41-42). He supports this conclusion based on the work of Barry Schwartz The Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less (2005).

Chapters one through three are pretty well supported with notes with references that can be found in the back of the book. The next five chapters, where he presents his strength based solution to the problem he identified in Part I, have no notes - none. We don't get another note until chapter nine and the last six chapters have very few notes to support his claims and advice. So much for a book "packed with research."

Buckingham tells women that they need to be strong, and he defines this as 1) successful, 2) instinctively looking forward to tomorrow, 3) growing and learning, 4) needs fulfilled. He never tells us how he developed and verified this construct definition. He also measures this with only five questions:
* How often do you feel an emotional high in your life?
* How often do you find yourself positively anticipating your day?
* How often do you become so involved in what you are doing that you lose track of time?
* How often do you feel invigorated at the end of each day?
* How often do you get to do things you really like to do?

I won't bore you with psychometric theory, but I seriously doubt these five items hang together in a measure that is both reliable and valid. And we will never know how reliable and valid this measure is because Buckingham does not point us to the citation that shows where this measure has been subject to a peer-reviewed evaluation. That is a HUGE problem, and makes everything else he says from this point forward (p. 55) unsupportable.

If only women knew how to find their strengths and focus their attention on them, they would be happier. Sorry, I don't buy it - it is way too simplistic. Let me give you an example:

"To solve the problems in your life - whether a hostile work environment, a sister-in-law who passively-aggressively criticizes your mothering technique, or a husband who doesn't help our at home - you must do the same: focus your attention on what "working" would look like, organize your life to create a few more of these "working" moments, and then celebrate them." (p. 178)

Buckingham tell us to try to see any behavior, whether good or bad, as a thread of strength. Benevolent distortion and positive illusion are other terms he uses to label this technique.

So if you work for a bully boss, the pathway to the positive is to find the strength in what they are doing, focus on that, and celebrate it? Give me a break. If you have a bully boss at work, your misery is NOT YOU. It is a dysfunctional corporate culture that is allowing people to behave badly. The way out is not to change your perspective on the abuse, but to change your situation - work with your company and its leaders to help change the culture or get the hell out of there!

The final sixty-three pages of the book are suggestions for tactics to lead a strong life. There is some appealing advice in this final section, but you should take it for exactly what it is - anecdotal advice.

I strongly recommend you do not waste your time with this book.

If you want a good book on happiness written by a real scientist, read The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want by Sonja Lyobomirsky

Find Your Strongest Life and Live Life on Purpose, October 4, 2009
This time around, Marcus Buckingham offers many more tools instead of gadgets comparing Find Your Strongest Life to the Truth About You. I could relate to the check points of knowing you are living a strong life: feeling what you do fulfills you, feeling inspired to start each day, wanting to learn something new, and, your most important needs are being met by your circle of support. If prior to reading this book, I was asked to put into words "why" I felt my life was strong and happy, I would have only been able to say, "because I feel like I am in control of what I do." I am a partner in a small business so while I may feel like I often carry the weight of the world on my shoulders as I also wear my mom and volunteer hats, I thrive on knowing I can make things happen instead of having to wait for permission to take a stab at a new idea. Ownership also keeps me inspired to keep learning about what other small businesses are doing. Thanks to Marcus, I can now intelligently put into words why my life is so rewarding.

However, it was not always like this, by far might I add. This is where I had to stop short of a perfect five stars. If I had read this when my four children were still very young, I would have been completely frustrated because I was in no way married to a man who would ever entertain staying home to raise the kids while I went after what made me feel strong. I also did not have the earning power needed to hire a nanny, or housekeeper, or yard service and an evening job was not possible due to his travel schedule. This was not addressed in Find Your Strongest Life. Maybe this needs to be the next book Marcus--How to Find Happiness with Your Strongest Life on Hold while You Do the Right Thing for Your Family.

Last but not least, while I "get" why you caution being optimistic about everything, this can be a dangerous concept to advocate to the woman whose full time job, not by choice, is raising young kids even though this is not her strong point. What purpose will it serve her to identify the negative aspects of her life when she may not be able to do anything about them at this moment?

I would recommend this book to other women, but only to those women who are in my position, whose kids are older so they are free to create their strongest life.

I feel very strongly about my "OK" rating, September 17, 2009

Helpful advice for everyday life, October 6, 2009
Find Your Strongest Life had simple, yet powerful tips for living a better life. They were tips that seemed basic, yet they were ideas I had never considered. I am a young, single woman. I'm not married and don't have kids and this book most certainly had advice just for me. In reading some of these other reviews, I'm confused by people who say this book is just for career women or just for moms - I completely disagree. I think this book has great advice for women of all ages and stages of life. Don't look to this book to answer all your life questions or to be your moral compass, that doesn't seem to be its intent. Look to it for good, practical life advice - for tips on how to live life in a way that strengthens you instead of draining you. Who doesn't need that kind of advice?

For wives and mothers only, August 14, 2009

Find Your Strongest Life by Marcus Buckingham: A Review, October 5, 2009
Okay, I'll just come out and say it. It's been really hard to Find My Strongest Anything lately. There have been two deaths in my family in the last week, yesterday my one and only laptop hard drive crashed (I'm on a borrowed one now) and, I realized just moments ago that this review is actually due today, October 5th, and not tomorrow, October 6th, as I'd thought. Me, strongest life? Hardly.

On the other hand, one could argue the timing of this book in my life couldn't be better. My impressions of the book:

The complete title is actually Find Your Strongest Life: What the Happiest and Most Successful Women Do Differently. I wasn't sure what to expect from a book that was so obviously not geared to me. Despite this though, I found it to be quite fascinating.

What the book ultimately tries to do is to teach you to identify your life's "strong moments," those moments that really get your juices flowing. Sounds pretty remedial, right? But, for me at least, it's so easy to let these moments go by unnoticed. Reading the book, I realized I'd been doing exactly that for a long time. Even as I thought about the last couple of weeks, as Buckingham suggests doing, and tried to pick them out, I kept coming up empty.

What Find Your Strongest Life helped me to do was pinpoint them so that I can now, going forward, focus my attention on them. I discovered, for example, that my Lead Role is as an "Advisor" (You'll learn where you fit after taking the simple test at [...]. The questions are geared to women, but I didn't find it difficult to think of each one in terms of my male role in life). I must say that, as I read the "strongest moments" associated with this trait, I became really excited.

One of them - someone calls you up out of the blue and relies on your opinion - reminded me of two real-life examples from just a few days ago. When I thought back to these two moments, I was instantly reminded of how much I enjoyed these conversations. Is it possible, I thought, to make a living advising people? Duh!?! Of course it is you dolt. People do it every day.

But other than a few brief flashes, I hadn't much thought about my desires in this area. Find Your Strongest Life helped me understand the importance of not treating these flashes so lightly. In short, I came to realize there's nothing I enjoy more than being relied upon for my opinion. In other words, as Marcus writes, to clarify a complex issue for someone who acts upon what I've told them and to see them succeed upon doing so.

Whether you find you're an Advisor, a Motivator, a Weaver, a Care-Taker, I think you'll find new motivation and the direction you're looking for in this new book.

What Is Your Strong Life Role, October 6, 2009
Marcus Buckingham is a consultant that specializes in strengths-based solutions. His newest book, Find Your Strongest Life: What the Happiest and Most Successful Women Do Differently, grew out of a workshop he did for The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Mr. Buckingham and his team counseled thirty women to help them rediscover the passion they were missing in their work. They followed them for six months and then came back together to see what changes had been made.

It was what happened after the show aired that caused him to write this book. After the show aired, over a million (mostly) women downloaded the workshop from Oprah.com and then lit up the message boards.

Mr. Buckingham has created a test called The Strong Life Test. It asks you 23 questions and then tells you what your lead role and supporting role is based on your strengths. In chapter 7, he defines what each of the nine roles are. The nine roles are: Advisor, Caretaker, Creator, Equalizer, Influencer, Motivator, Pioneer, Teacher and Weaver.

I was very interested in reading this book. I am in the midst of a transition and have been trying to decide what type of work I should look for. For me, the best advice that Mr. Buckingham gives is to examine the times in your past that were strong moments. What excited you. What made you look forward to going to work. You must pay attention to those moments and apply what you learn to the decisions you make about the future.

I took The Strong Life Test. It said that my lead role is Teacher and my supporting role is Influencer. These are not the roles that I would have thought described me. I am not saying that it is wrong but I am going to have to think about it more and see where those roles might lead me.

I would recommend this book for any woman who is not satisfied with her work.

Reviewed for Thomas Nelson's Book Review Blogger Program. [...]

Find Your Strongest Life is pretty weak advice., October 5, 2009
As a book review blogger for Thomas Nelson Publishers I have an opportunity to read a wide range of books. I found Find Your Strongest Life to be on the outside edges of that range. Author Marcus Buckingham subtitled his book: What the Happiest and Most Successful Women Do Differently. While I have enjoyed previous works by Buckingham - especially Now, Discover Your Strengths - I cannot recommend this volume to my readers. Find Your Strongest Life covers little new ground, and is filled with trite, simplistic advice. In answer to the question: What's Stopping You? Buckingham writes on p. 130:

Look back over your life. Are there times when you rejected what you knew was true about yourself? Times when you heard a small voice calling you, but you turned your head away, and listened more closely to the voices of others? Times, even, when you deliberately drowned out this voice with your own shouting and claiming?

If you feel that you must read this book I would strongly suggest you utilize your local library and simply check it out for a few hours. The book is designed to breeze through it by focusing only on the "What To Take Away From This Chapter" shaded sections at the end of each chapter. One extended shaded section in chpt. 7 identifies different roles you play. This is perhaps the most interesting and helpful section in the book.

The key to Buckingham's failure to provide ground-breaking material here is found in the first line of the acknowledgements:

This book grew out of an attempt to reply to the thousands of post we received on [...]...

Perhaps most of this material would have been better presented in a return visit to Oprah's couch or as a series of articles in O.

I Am Living My Strongest Life, October 5, 2009
Find Your Strongest Life by Marcus Buckingham is a book that every woman needs to read. It inspires you to find out who you are, how you tick, and what you can do with the ticks. Marcus does a great job of cutting to the chase and telling it like it is when it comes to women getting real and discovering their strongest self.

I was thrilled to see a Strong Life test. I discovered that my strongest life is found in teaching and creating. Well, I knew that. It was just confirmed by taking the test.

As you read the book you will discover facts, read some eye opening research, and see that many women are living a life based on myths more so than truth. Reading the stories of women seeking will help you to see that you are not alone on this journey.

As I read Find your Strongest Life, I found myself wanting to get up and get the job at hand done. It was as if Marcus were right there talking to me across the table while we sipped on coffee and tea. He seems to get what women need when it comes to discovery of self! AWESOME FOR A MAN!

It was an awesome read for me because I do not believe in multi-tasking. I only have two hands, two feet, and one brain and trying to do it all makes me nutty. It was refreshing to find out that I don't have to do it and that my strongest life comes from finding my place in God's plan and sticking with it.

If you are seeking your strongest life, then read Find Your Strongest Life! You won't be sorry.

... Read more

Editorial Review

Phyllis Mindell, an acclaimed expert on professional communications, shows women how to transform themselves by transforming their language; shed weak words, phrases, and gestures; empower themselves to win attention and respect; and get their ideas across with confidence and power.

Perhaps the best teacher of how the power of language can transform is an unexpected one: Charlotte the spider of E.B. White's, Charlotte's Web. Mindell demonstrates how Charlotte communicated messages that gained national attention and saved a friend's life. As a model, she combines female strengths of wisdom and compassion with the determination and power to make a difference.

As part of Prentice Hall Press's highly successful How to Say It tm series, How to Say It tm for Women is packed with practical tips, techniques, and examples that arm women to grapple with every communication issue, from choosing the right word or sentence to speaking, reading, writing, leading, dressing, and interviewing effectively. Readers will learn how to: shunwords that weaken messages and make women invisible; sail through interviews; assess and develop leadership skills; say NO, kindly but firmly; respond appropriately to slurs, insults, and harassment; say the one winning word thatgets people to follow directions.

True stories about women in every field, along with quotes from Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Carla Hills, Amelia Earhart, Elizabeth Dole and others, enable women totapthe power of words to persuade, motivate, establish authority, and make a difference-- without sacrificing their integrity, their compassion, or their femininity. ... Read more

Reviews

This book delivers on its promises, July 22, 2001
Dr. Phyllis Mindell begins her work with an opening that outlines the benefits you will gain as a reader, and advice for making the most of the book. Among Dr. Mindell's long list of promises are some very audacious ones, such as "influence policy decisions at the top" "improve your career" and "lead and manage successfully". Upon reading this intro, I was intrigued but highly skeptical. After all, Phyllis didn't know my particular situation, the politics in my company, or the people with whom I am dealing. How then, I wondered, could she guarantee me such dramatic results? After reading the book and seeing immediate improvement in my professional life, I understand that that is the point indeed--the issues faced by women in all professions and at all levels have common roots! Dr. Mindell has discovered the true cause of women's relative lack of success in the workplace when compared to men: a failure to appreciate and utilize the power of language. Unfortunately, we are often guilty of self-sabotage in which we undermine our own effectiveness with weak language or an attempt to imitate the "strong" language of men.Fortunately, Dr. Mindell has developed a language style for women and she teaches it in a practical, actionable way with lots of examples and tools to show the reader "how to transform your life by transforming your language". She also discusses style and dressing for success, as well as power reading, both important issues related to that of language. The book's effect on me was immediate, as I was reading it on a plane on the way to Brazil: I had to write a presentation to give in Sao Paulo and was "cheating" by using my time to read instead. However, when I got to the chapter on organizing and writing effective presentations, I simply followed the outline and got mine done in half the time. I also received many compliments for my apparent "off the cuff" speech the next day at the Energy conference. Little did they know that I had the help of an "expert"! I loved the whole book and read it in a couple of sittings although it is not a "light read" by any means. I am now recommending "How to Say it For Women" to all my women colleagues and friends. The book is a good investment and a steal at that price.

What every woman should know!, March 9, 2006
I read about this book - actually, I consider it a textbook - when searching for tools on expanding my career. I usually wouldn't buy something like this, and instead look for similar information from free 'Net sources. But on a whim, I bought it, and am so glad I did. I'm not even halfway through and what I've learned already has helped me to speak and express myself in a way that gets people's attention, and has improved my professional image. One of the best tips, which comes early in the book, is catching myself using the "I think/like/don't like" phrase when I want to discuss facts. I do it, so I don't look like a know-it-all. Dr. Mindell, however, shows several ways to express facts without appearing as though I have all the answers.

The author also cites common grammar and language mistakes that keep women in the background, and prevent us from asserting our strengths and skills. The concept of Weak Language is especially intriguing; in reviewing the examples, I saw myself in almost every one. Her solutions are very attainable, but she strongly recommends practicing this new language with another woman. I have, and my women friends were amazed at how powerful this "new" language sounds.

These are hard habits to break, but with the tips and examples in this book, I'm getting better at it. And I can see the difference in how others treat me; more importantly, I feel different about myself. The book is really a life-changing experience, for someone who has never really put much thought into my "image" but is continually frustrated at not getting the positive attention for my work success as I believe I deserve. Thank you Dr. Mindell!

A valuable resource for aspiring women leaders, July 29, 2004
I can't recommend this book highly enough. As a leadership coach in Silicon valley I often help women managers and executives to become better leaders, and this book speaks directly to two of the biggest roadblocks to women's advancement: communication and confidence. These women are shocked at how closely Mindell understands their work challenges. The book takes highly volatile, challenging workplace situations and offers suggestions that immediately actionable.

Great basis for coursework, April 4, 2005
I am using this book as a reference for my students in a business english course in Japan. Although the students find reading it cover to cover a bit too much (lower intermediate English level) when I point out specific points and pages I want them to read and understand, they really get a lot out of it. The book is written well and ideas are developed and backed up clearly. I would recommend this to any teachers of women students.

Mandatory Reading for the Successful Businesswoman, July 9, 2001
How to Say It For Women delivers an action plan to convey confidence in today's business environment. Whether it is in speech, writing or behavior, the guidelines outlined provide a common sense approach to successful business communication.

Indispensable!, January 18, 2001
How to Say It for Women is the only guide to communication I'll ever need. It not only gives great tips on reading, writing, speaking, listening, style, and body language, but it even gives "crib sheets" that suggest exact words to say in hard situations (job interviews, conflicts, performance appraisals). To top it off, the checklist on leadership skills show a clear way to perfect my skills. And the idea of using Charlotte the spider as the role model is so much fun and brings me back to my own childhood.

Indispensable!, January 18, 2001
How to Say It for Women is the only guide to communication I'll ever need. It not only gives great tips on reading, writing, speaking, listening, style, and body language, but it even gives "crib sheets" that suggest exact words to say in hard situations (job interviews, conflicts, performance appraisals). To top it off, the checklist on leadership skills show a clear way to perfect my skills. And the idea of using Charlotte the spider as the role model is so much fun and brings me back to my own childhood.

How to be the speaker you admire, August 1, 2008
In the course of a year, I met the two most articulate, elegantly spoken people I have ever encountered. One was a (male) CEO of a large company. The other was a (female) public relations person working in the entertainment industry. I did business with the former and became close friends with the latter. Both made me feel just a little inadequate about my use of language. I knew I was far more intelligent than my speech presented. One day, after listening to my friend say one of her gorgeously precise sentences, I asked her where she had learned to speak so powerfully, always able to find the most effective word, always able to form them into the most on-the-mark sentences. Her answer was this book.

I would never have picked it up on my own. The "for women" part would have put me off. I wasn't thinking of my "weak" language as a gender issue. But, even if you don't look at things that way, this book will help you.

Read it. Do the exercises. You'll think about language in a whole new way and find yourself being listened to -and believed- more than ever.

Winning Words for Women, January 18, 2001
Dr.Mindell knows how to make hard things seem easy,like how to plan a presentation without panic,how not to let fear stop you,and the different kinds of e-writing.My favorite chapters are the ones about style[don't vacuum while wearing high heels,shape doesn't matter],listening,and interviewing.I recommend it for everyone.

Not Helpful, April 24, 2005
I bought this book at a womens' leadership conference a couple of years ago. I read it cover-to-cover and decided to try the skills covered when communicating in my office. My supervisors' opinions of me changed drastically - they began to view me as surly and defiant. I didn't think any of the verbage alternatives were rude, but in the organization where I was working, the higher-ups expected you to consider them omnipotent and not have an opinion of your own. Ultimately one should consider their audience and adjust their language accordingly. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Painlessly takes the reader through the world of money, April 24, 2010
This book is a basic introduction to the world of money for teens; how to get it, save it and spend it.

Before you can spend money on clothes or an MP3 player, you need some money coming in, so a job is a requirement. Apply at a favorite store at the mall, or the local supermarket, or advertise in your neighborhood as a dog walker. This is the time to put on your thinking cap and get creative. If you are underage, get the approval of your parents first.

Now that you have a steady income, what do you do with it? The authors suggest creating four "pots." Put 30 percent toward everyday expenses, another 30 percent toward short-term savings (like a new pair of boots) and the other 30 percent toward long-term savings (it's never too early to start saving for college or a car). Consider giving the last 10 percent to charity.

How do you get the most out of each dollar spent? Don't be afraid to shop at second-hand or thrift stores. Many times generic cosmetics have the exact same ingredients as the brand-name cosmetics; you are paying for the marketing and fancy packaging. Do your own nails. Read the details of your cellphone plan and know exactly what you are paying for. Bottle your own water instead of paying for it, and think about hosting a DVD night with your friends instead of going to the movies.

Savings accounts are an easy, and safe, way of making your money grow. For those who are more daring, perhaps investing in the stock market is the way to go. The potential payoff is greater, but so is the risk of losing your money.

There are alternatives to "retail therapy," the pick-me-up that comes from spending money. Hold a clothing swap, exercise, discover the things that your library has for free or become a volunteer at an organization that does work that you care about.

The authors do a wonderful job at painlessly taking the reader through the world of money. There are colors and graphics throughout, so it is really easy to read. Boys should not be put off by the title, this book is equally recommended for you, too.

Really good!, March 3, 2009
I thought this was a really good book! It is fun and has lots of information. :) Great! ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Remarkable discoveries about what drives and sustains successful women leaders.

Based on five years of proprietary research, How Remarkable Women Lead speaks to you as no other book has, with its hopeful outlook and unique ideas about success. It's the new "right stuff" of leadership, raising provocative issues such as whether feminine leadership traits (for women and men) are better suited for our fast-changing, hyper-competitive, and increasingly complex world.

The authors, McKinsey & Company consultants Joanna Barsh and Susie Cranston, establish the links between joy, happiness, and distinctive performance with the groundbreaking model of Centered Leadership.

The book's personal stories and related insights show you the magic that happens when you put the five elements of Centered Leadership–meaning, framing, connecting, engaging, and energizing–to work. They include:

• How Alondra de la Parra built on her strengths and passions to infuse her life with meaning and make her way in the male-dominated world of orchestra conducting
• How Andrea Jung, the CEO of Avon, avoided a downward spiral when the company turned down by "firing herself" on Friday and re-emerging on Monday as the "new" turnaround CEO
• How Ruth Porat's sponsors at Morgan Stanley not only helped her grow but were also her ballast for coping with difficult personal and professional times
•How Eileen Naughton recovered after losing her dream job, landing on her feet at Google and open to a new leadership opportunity
• How Julie Coates of Woolworth's Australia makes energy key to her professional success, with reserves for her "second shift" as wife and mother

How Remarkable Women Lead is both profoundly moving and actionable. Woman or man, you'll find yourself in its pages and emerge with a practical plan for breaking through at both work and in life.
... Read more

Reviews

ALL WOMEN ARE REMARKABLE AND SHOULD READ THIS BOOKK, October 8, 2009
Given that I am a vascular surgeon, I was not sure if this book would apply to my life or resonate with me personally, but after reading it on the insistence of a friend, I found it to be an amazing lesson on how to authentically structure one's work life so that it can be productive and rewarding even if you are not "leading" in the traditional sense. Follow the leads in this book and you will be a leader by example if nothing else. I couldn't put the book down, the stories of the women in this book were gripping and inspiring....every woman should read this book.

How Remarkable Women Lead, October 30, 2009
Let's make this easy: just buy it! You won't be sorry!
As the director of a women's leadership program at a college, I get an opportunity to read (and review) dozens of books on women's leadership. I also get the pleasure of hosting some of the authors. While there are some good (even very good) books and some good (even very good) authors-as-presenters, rarely do these two dimensions come togther in ways that are intellectually intriguiging, inspiring and just plain enormous fun and engaging. How Remarkable Women Lead, accomplishes all of this as a book. But if you get a chance to actually hear the author, Joanna Barsh present, run, don't walk. She's magic.

Inspiring AND Practical, October 3, 2009
I have throroughly enjoyed this book. It is real, yet inspiring on many levels. Joanna gives you a very real view of women leaders and helps to frame how they make it through tough times-which is what I need now-and I think many leaders need. Her concept of Centered Leadership is a strong life model and I found myself making lots of notes in the margins with "to do's" in my own work life. Like many leaders, this is a particularly tough time to lead and this book helped me to reframe what I have to offer my team and my colleagues. I am buying copies for all of my direct reports with the intent that they will share many of the concepts with their teams.

A Book Worth Reading and Re-reading!, October 18, 2009
I first read this book in one weekend. I carried the book around with me everywhere -- to my son's baseball games and doing errands -- and I talked about the ideas in the book with my family and friends and the strangers in line at Starbucks. The next weekend, I re-read certain chapters of the book, and this time, I read it with a pen in hand and made notes in the margins. This book not only prompts thinking about work and life, but offers concrete strategies to try.
(I bought another copy to give as a gift to a friend who just got promoted.)

Bon voyage!, November 16, 2009

As I read this book co-authored by Joanna Barsh and Susie Cranston, with substantial assistance provided by Geoffrey Lewis, I realized that remarkable men lead others in much the same way that, as Barsh and Cranston explain, remarkable women do: by leveraging their talent, desire to lead, and tolerance for change within all areas of their lives. Barsh and Cranston characterize this as "Centered Leadership" within five separate but interdependent dimensions: Meaning, Framing, Connecting, Engaging, and Energizing. They devote a separate chapter to each of the five. However they are named and defined, there are areas in which aspiring leaders are challenged to attract the support of others. The greater challenge is to sustain that support. What Barsh and Cranston share in this book is what they learned from five years of rigorous and extensive research that involved hundreds of remarkable women in all manner of leadership positions.

What they call "the journey to the center" is one of the most important themes in their narrative, strikingly similar to what Bill George and Peter Sims describe in True North: a three-phase "journey to authentic leadership" which begins with character formation and culminates (not concludes) with full development of authentic leadership within five separate but related dimensions: pursuing purpose with passion, practicing purpose with passion, practicing solid values, leading with heart, establishing connected relationships, and demonstrating self-discipline. Hundreds (thousands?) of self-help books on leadership also invoke the "journey" metaphor while suggesting all manner of "phases," "stages," "dimensions," etc. What sets these two books (i.e. How Remarkable Women Lead and True North) apart is the authenticity of what their respective interviewees share so candidly and so generously.

It is worth noting that throughout Barsh and Cranston's narrative, most of those interviewed emphasized the importance of establishing and then nourishing personal relationships. This is especially true of those who are entrusted with leadership responsibilities. More often than not, what George and Sims characterize as a process of "peeling back the onion" to locate the "authentic self" requires the assistance, indeed the direct involvement of others. According to George and Sims, True North is "the internal compass that guides you as a human being at your deepest level. It is your orienting point - your fixed point in a spinning world - that helps you stay on track as a leader. Your True North is based on what is most important to you, your most cherished values, your passions and motivations, the sources of satisfaction in your life. Just as a compass points toward a magnetic field, your True North pulls you toward the purpose of your leadership." George and Sims could well be describing Centered Leadership.

Barsh and Cranston acknowledge in the Introduction that during their research for this book, they were not only involved but engaged in their own journey of self-exploration, one that provided unexpected revelations to which they were obviously receptive, a key point. "We were weaving the threads of leadership, performance, and fulfillment into a system with behaviors, skills, and actions...It was also about choice. About personal ownership." Then one of the most important paragraphs in the Introduction: "Meaning underpinned everything. It established the right motivation and helped women identify their direction. On top of this, we saw that there were three clusters of capabilities and tactics - framing and connecting and engaging - that led to sustained success and increased joy in living. Finally, we brought in `energizing' to fuel each woman's long-term journey."

Presumably many women who read this book will have already embarked on that journey. What Barsh and Cranston share in this book can help them to gain even greater meaning and happiness from what they experience. Presumably some of these women have encountered severe, perhaps debilitating resistance or at least formidable barriers to their progress. What Barsh and Cranston share can help them to regain their self-confidence, energy, and - most important of all - their faith in what they can accomplish. There are others who will not read this book but who, nonetheless, will also derive substantial benefit from it because they are supervised by those who do. One of the most important responsibilities of a great leader - one that every great leader views as a privilege as well as an obligation - is to help "grow" those entrusted to their care.

I presume to add that what Barsh and Cranston share can also be of substantial value to the personal fulfillment as well as the professional development of men would aspire to become remarkable leaders. There is much they can learn from the women who are so extensively quoted as they explain how they helped to inspire others, how they gained clarity of both vision and purpose when coping with difficult, sometimes unpleasant realities, how they initiated and then nourished mutually beneficial relationships with others, how they took ownership for opportunities as well as risks with personal accountability, and how they assumed and fulfilled their responsibilities to their families and to their communities. Neither women nor men in leadership positions can "balance" everything in their careers and personal lives (no one can) but it is possible to recognize what is most important at any given time and then "balance" the allocation of one's time and energy accordingly.

For some readers, let the journey to the center begin. For others, let that journey proceed more smoothly and expeditiously. Either way, bon voyage!

A guide for all women, whether leaders today or future leaders, December 10, 2009
Joanna Barsh does a remarkable job framing opportunities for women who are currently leaders or aspiring leaders. The book balances anecdotal stories with evidence based on years of research. As a rising leader in corporate America, it was refreshing to hear from some of the most accomplished women leaders in the world. It was enlightening to hear that they had their moments of crisis, self doubt and mistakes. They learned from these moments and used them to build their future. This book is important for any aspiring leader, whether male or female, as it presents another, a better, way to lead. Kudos to Joanna, Susie Cranston and the team at the Centered Leadership Project.

must read for any professional, October 18, 2009
This book is wonderful for any professional....As a new consultant, I have gone through self-doubt and bouts of pessimism in an intense way as I have been getting settled to my new job and my new client. This book has provided me with a framework to reflect and improve - at the very least, it has reminded me that I am not alone in the hopelessness that I have felt at times. I'm looking forward to applying its tenets on a daily basis so that I can become a more effective leader.

This book has the potential to make a huge difference in the lives of thousands of women (and men). I'm planning to give them to my business school friends and sisters for Christmas.

Purposeful and Utilitarian, December 2, 2009
Athena, Diana and Durga might pave astronomical roadways; but we small mortals -especially we women - can still take giant steps, even leaps. The rhythms, the reasons may differ - but the distances covered are equal. A woman warrior, teacher, philosopher, scientist, businesswoman or educator is no less than any other. Ms. Barsh and Cranston's book serves as a roadmap, a cartographic guide perhaps, towards the journey countless woman leaders take.

How Remarkable Women Lead is both a roadmap as well as an accessible workbook into the mechanisms that govern the lives of women leaders. The text is useful for the established leader as well as the budding student. All of the sections are useful: Energizing, Meaning, Connecting, etc... However - the section on "Framing", in particular, is perhaps the most honest and useful in that it moves beyond the typical women's empowerment pulpit and forays into the landscape of pragmatism and realism. Framing tactically addresses the landscape of "what do I do when..."; the very space many leadership books fail to address. Framing is the necessary and critical reality about becoming a leader. This books speaks to the evolution - not the destination of leadership.

Framing acknowledges the need for contextualization and the "scalar" management of problems and situations. The Framing section of How Remarkable Women Lead takes an honest and realistic approach towards an exercise often used in the laboratory called: "recalibration."

I believe in the globalized and dynamic professional landscape - framing - as a tool kit - will become increasingly important towards building sustainable leadership models and thus, organizations.

Each section is useful and a discrete guide into various stages of development. This book is a useful and a brilliant guide for a any student of leadership.


- Meg Mude
Student of Leadership and Innovation...

A Thoughtful Book That Is Worth The Time Spent Reading It, April 5, 2010
The more I got into this book, the better it got. Toward the end I didn't want to put it down. I found myself reaching for my highlighter, a sure sign that there was good information there that I don't want to lose.

Some chapters in this book didn't really reach out and grab me, because they better apply to women starting out in their careers. I found a chapter that not only reached out and grabbed me, but it shouted at me! I suspect that most women will find something worthwhile in this book, even if not every chapter applies. I found a technique that I hope will help me avoid one of my problematic habits.

In addition to my problem section, which I will not share here, , I particularly enjoyed the chapter on making your own luck. "The core lesson in engaging is taking charge and making things happen for yourself." That's an improvement over what seems to be the trend, especially since the internet, message boards, etc., where everyone plays the victim. "This is what was done to me" and "How dare you tell me I should take responsibility for myself when these people have mistreated me." The author tells us we have to recognize what we want and then take steps to get it. You have to take a few risks, and before you do, you need to "know what you know and what you don't know."

There are stories and excellent quotes throughout the book from leaders, women and men, to illustrate the points the author is making.

Adapting To The New Realities is a section I would like to recommend along with the Stepping up to Lead. "You can manage a lot of people, but to lead you have to inspire, not intimidate. Have passion and compassion." Then I was delighted with the section on "Energy in Your Toolkit" where an example was given of treating your energy as an asset that you invest and grow. The information on how to "Minimize the Drains" on your energy is right on target. Having boundaries. What an interesting idea! OUCH! The comment also got me about a Pavlovian reaction to your phone ringing and fragmenting your time through ongoing e-mailing, texting, and phonecalls causing you to lose concentration and lose control of your schedule. I DO allow others to highjack my time on things that may be far less important. Urgent is not important. Kicking the "always-On" habit. Can you do that? It sounds wonderful to me.

I'm going to have to spend more time on that chapter.

Then I'm going to devote a little more time to the chapter on "Recovery Time" I think.

Now where is that highlighter.

great model for aspiring leaders, November 25, 2009
As an aspiring leader in her 30's, I have found The Centered Leadership framework to be extremely valuable from a personal and professional perspective. Not only does the book contain numerous inspiring stories, but it also provides clear and practical exercises that anyone can apply in his/her daily life. Simply reflecting on the themes of the book for a few minutes a day can have a significant impact on one's perspective. I would recommend this book to any man or woman looking to obtain a more holistic picture of leadership. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Customized for the female entrepreneur's unique psychological experience of launching a business, BIRTHING THE ELEPHANT goes beyond logistics to prepare women for the emotional challenges they will face, with expert advice on reshaping one's business identity, giving up the paycheck mentality, anticipating problems, and avoiding costly mistakes. This supportive handbook gives the small-business owner the staying power to survive and succeed in the business of her dreams.

"My bed-and-breakfast business started out small and just keeps growing--thanks in part to startup advice from Karin and Bruce. Everyone needs a success coach to cheer them on and whisper encouraging advice in their ear when the going gets tough! They've helped me realize my dream."
--Becky Rohrer, owner of College Inn in Westerville, Ohio ... Read more

Reviews

A book for men entrepreneurs, but made (written) for women by a woman. TwoThumbsUp!, March 16, 2008

I liked this book a lot. I regularly keep my eye out for new books for women entrepreneurs. Many of them I don't particularly like. However, this one is a good one in my humble opinion. It has the following chapters:

1. Design your destiny
2. Real stories behind real startups
3. Substitute brains for bucks
4. Take the leap
5. Stage 1 - Start your startup
6. Stage 2 - Run your own show
7. Stage 3 - Turn breakdowns into break throughs
8. Stage 4 - Find your business rhythm
9. Avoid the 10 biggest pitfalls
10. Welcome to the new life

This book includes pointers and actions items to help the woman entrepreneur succeed in business. It also includes the following list of 10 regarding pitfalls women (and men) tend to fall prey to when starting their own company:

>>Romanticizing being your own boss
>>Not getting the right help early
>>Not understanding how to network
>>Running yourself ragged
>>Spending money for the wrong reasons
>>Not valuing your time highly
>>Not pricing properly
>>Spending too much on advertising
>>Not trusting your gut
>>Not thinking enough about the big picture

Most of these things can be avoided if the entrepreneur does the necessary research and planning BEFORE attempting to start their business. The author makes it clear that she believes that writing a sound business plan is a necessary step for any businessperson to do before they start their business. Since I am a firm believer in business plans, I highly recommend women entrepreneurs add this book to their reading list. 5 stars!

Not just for people getting started., March 27, 2008
I really liked this book not just because it had good information and made me re-think some of my business strategies, but because the successful women the authors interviewed had such inspiring stories that they inspired *me* all over again. Starting any sort of a business is tough, as I am finding out, and sometimes you just need to be reminded that success is not just possible, but likely if you go about it the right way. Highly recommended.

Great book, gets right to the point with lots of helpful information!, April 7, 2008
My wife is currently in school to obtain her doctorate in Physical Therapy. I thought this would be an ideal book to help her understand the "ins" and "outs" of running her own business. Now I can barely pry the book out of her hands! What an ideal gift...She loves it.

Gave me the confidence to launch, March 11, 2008
I found this book to be very helpful and inspiring. After being tired of being retired, I want to begin my own business, but didn't know where to start. Birthing the elephant gave me confidence and guidelines to go ahead with my ideas. Very interesting read.

Different than any start-up biz book I have read, July 26, 2008
I read a stack of books when starting my retail business, but there is something different (and more helpful) about Birthing the Elephant. BTE reflected exactly not only what I was going through but MY FEELINGS BEHIND IT ALL! I was on an emotional roller coaster getting my business off the ground (still am :o), and at times I felt this made me unqualified at attempting to do what I was doing. But BTE helped me see that I was not alone, and actually, I was very normal. No other book talks about this other side of self-businesshood, which in a way is a lot like parenthood. It's ok to be emotional in business, we are human after all. BTE is a wonderful guide to help you navigate through it.

Great Read!, April 9, 2008
I read Bruce's weekly ask a small business professor article. I must say, each week Bruce offers fantastic information on how to successfully run and manage a small business. Naturally, when I saw his name on the book I felt inclined to read it from being a fan of his syndicated article. Boy was I happy I did. In the book Bruce does a fantastic job of encouraging women and men on how to start up a small business and successfully operate it. Keep up the good work Bruce.

Advice and tips to get your business started up, March 10, 2008
This book is great because it helped inspire me to get motivated to start up my new business venture. The book has useful concrete examples, quick tips and pitfalls to avoid for new startup entrepreneurs. Well worth the small investment for good startup advice and advice while running the show!

The essence of entrepreneurship, February 20, 2008
"Birthing the Elephant" captures the essence of starting a new venture - that roller coaster ride of emotions and the exhiliration of being one's own boss. The stories that these women tell are striking in their similarity. I never realized that there was a blueprint and timetable in entrepreneurship. I wish I had had this information when I started.

Great book!, September 15, 2008
This book has to be one of the best out there! Any woman who is thinking about starting her own business should read this book. It is a great guide with a lot of helpful hints to use while starting your business.

A must read for aspiring entrepreneurs!, April 10, 2008
"Birthing the Elephant" serves as an informative guidebook to becoming a successful entrepreneur. This book gave me the motivational push to consider the possibility of starting my own small business. Great read for both small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. The stories of successful women entrepreneurs across various industries were very insightful. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

I have to recommend this book to wanta-be entrepreneurs as a small business book worthy of being purchased and read., May 9, 2008

This book was pretty good. The authors have written a small business book that includes what most other startup guides or workbooks include that are packed with good content on the subject. However, these ladies have written the book specifically targeting young women or stay-at-home moms. The writing style is very similar to the book by Michelle Goodman entitled "The Anti 9-5 Guide" (ISBN: 1580051863).

Interestingly "The Boss of You" is endorsed by Ms. Goodman and it shares the same publisher as Ms. Goodman's book. And we learn from reading the book that the authors and Ms. Goodman have become friendly while writing the book. If you liked Ms. Goodman's book, then you will like this book, too - I'm pretty sure.

This book is full of questions a wanta-be entrepreneur needs to ask when trying to conceptualize a startup and get it up and running. In a way this was a workbook as well as a guide. Early in the book there are exercises that the authors want the reader to complete in writing. I thought that was wonderful. They cover the following topics quickly and well:

1. Business goals
2. Success
3. Identify your strengths (and weaknesses)
4. Identify your product and/or services
5. Identify who you are going to sell to
6. Figure out your costs
7. Create an appropriate and good name for the biz
8. Jot all this down in some sort of a plan

I would have liked the book more if it had gone more heavily into home-based businesses and Internet marketing. It's my hunch that those topics are on the mark with the target audience of this book. I also would have liked to have seen a discussion of a formal business plan. I know the authors say there probably is no need to write a formal plan, but they do indicate some sort of plan is a good idea. By providing a brief overview of a formal plan the reader could put together a "some sort of plan."

The authors talk about having formed a partnership when they started their Web design business in 2000. And they talk about the importance of having a written Partnership Agreement. But on the back cover of the book the name of their company has an INC at the end of it. So did they start a partnership or did they start a corporation? The book doesn't say much about Choice of Legal Entity - either theirs or the options available. I personally would recommend that readers consider a Limited Liability Company (LLC)instead of a mere partnership. And for the multi-member variety of LLC I would highly recommend creating a written Operating Agreement which is much like a partnership agreement.

I loved the little sidebars in this book. And I thought the book was well outlined. However, it came across a little wordy in the beginning for me when it was clear the authors were trying to create a certain feel for the book and cater to young women and housewives. That just was not my cup of tea. But the book is packed with good real life experiences and words of wisdom from two ladies (and others) who have successfully started their own small business. And, as a result, I have to recommend this book to wanta-be entrepreneurs as a small business book worthy of being purchased and read. 4 stars!

I am simply blown away..., September 29, 2008
I started my own publishing business in 2006 and am wanting to recreate it. I came across this book at the library and have been amazed by the way it has opened up my relationship to my business. The authors avoid business jargon (actually, they pleasantly mock it) and present their information and exercises in simple language. I believe that has been the key, for me, in reveling in this book.

This is the first entrepreneurial book I've read that wasn't about me trying to fit myself into a bunch of business jargon. It allowed me to ask "How will I take these business aspects of myself and present them to the world?" The book still leads me through the process of creating a business, but I would have to say, it internalizes the process. A few years ago, I did the business plan, set the goals, researched the markets, etc, and while that was useful for organizing my mind and timeline, somehow, it removed "me" from my business. What business calls "branding", the authors call "personality" and with that simple language, it clicked for me.

This is a book targeted for women business owners, but it is not exclusive to them. It presents an organic, feeling approach to creating a business, and that is exactly what was missing for me from all the other business start-up books I've read. I truly hope people can recognize that the approach this book takes with helping a person develop their business is a vital one - our current economy is demanding that we recreate how we do business and this book sets up an approach that gets it right from the start. The authors show how I can be a business-owner and be happy, and they do it without a lot of hype.

Not just another 'cod liver oil' business book, June 5, 2008
Having started my own business "accidently" - one contract led to another, led to another and before I knew it I was juggling clients - I hadn't done a lot of the planning they discuss in the first half of the book. So despite already being up and running, reading this book was a fantastic opportunity to bring some clarity/structure to what I was doing. Its so easy when you are self employed to never turn down work and The Boss of You, really helped me identify what work is good for me and my business to be doing, and what stuff I should be trying to phase out of. I help businesses plan and develop their own communications. A lot of my clients are new businesses and haven't necessarily done all of the thinking/planning that Mears/Bacon walk readers through - it was helpful to be given a framework to help my clients do that on the way to identifying what their messaging is. And, the book was a refreshing departure from what I call the "cod liver oil" business books - good for you but yucky. Nice to be able to enjoy something that was good for me. The humour was greatly appreciated.

Forever changed..., February 17, 2010
Now, I am really into reading business books. It's one of my most favorite things to do in the whole wide world. But the very first one I read, still to this day, had the most impact on me. I am totally, forever, and always in love with this book for its humorous and complete insights for women creatives trying to bring their dreams to the world. This book gave me the courage, strength, know-how to go out on my own, quit my 9-5 and follow my dreams. I really can't say enough about this true gem. It's got advice from just starting out, to staying in business, and everything in between. These ladies are my heroes and I'll forever be changed by this book. Thank you ladies!!

most helpful thing i've read about starting your own business, November 17, 2009
Step-by-step advice on how to start your own business in a readable style. Although the tone gets annoying in parts ("those darling high heels you bought for client interviews are now a business write off!"), I found this book to be full of priceless tidbits and an easy, fun read. While definitely geared toward the "professional" (us waitresses have such a hard time finding relevant business advice), I found it more relevant than other business books I've found that seem like they were written for business majors or people who are trying to make a gajillion dollars. Recommended. Highly.

Flat out Great Advice, February 17, 2009
Great book, If your looking to go out on your own, Male or Female. I would say add this to your collection. I bought this for my wife and I couldn't put it down.

Fresh, Fun and Factual, October 27, 2008
This book starts out by breaking the rules of "business books" and yet shows readers why they must pay attention to some of the rules of business. In Chapter 2 the authors stress the need to have a real plan and help readers answer two extremely important questions: What Are You Selling? and Who Are Your Customers? Using their thought provoking exercises is a practical but fun way to determine what your product/service is and where & how it fits in to the consumer world. I stress this in my book (Capitalizing On Being Woman Owned) and have to bring it into all my workshops and client consultations about marketing research for Woman Owned Businesses because women business owners usually have not done it and that makes research frustrating and wasteful instead of beneficial.

The Chapters on Financial Scenarios, Setting Up Shop, Hiring People and Customer Service are full of down to earth and very practical advice.

This might not be the best book about starting and running a business for ALL women. It's a little geared toward consumer based businesses instead of business-to-business types. The style may be a little jarring for other than Gen Xers.

By their nature books on starting and running a business are somewhat general. On a generalness scale of 1 to 10 (with 1 being most general) this book is about a 6. But the advice and exercises are very applicable to most business types. You would have to find a book on your specific business type to do any better than "Boss of You."

It really is everything you need to know, August 22, 2008
This book is perfectly titled and is a great resource. It's concise and smart with real examples and good exercises. It is helpful especially if you have your business idea in mind already. If you still need to decide on a business idea, come up with a couple before reading this.

A MUST-READ for all fledgling entrepreneurs!, July 16, 2008
Congratulations to Emira and Lauren for writing this excellent book. I am half way through, and reading it seriously: I am reading a couple of chapters at night, and going back and answering the questions by day in writing. I plan on starting my own PR business, and this book has become a bit of a "manifesto" for me. What I love most is the basic, practical advice it offers, along with the encouragement. It's positive and reassuring, yet direct about the pitfalls of making mistakes with your business.

Next, I love the feminist subtext of this book: that us women deserve to be paid what we're worth, and I loved the urge ("We beg of you, close the wage gap between men and women!") to price ourselves appropriately, and not modestly.

"The Boss of You" is hitting me on a few levels, inspires me, and is giving me courage to get my ducks in a row for the eventual launch day (still a ways off - but definitely in the works).

I really hope the Oprah producers come across this book and get these two rockin' chicks on the Oprah show. Talk about "living your true life" - and earning a living while doing so - !

When meeting a graphic designer to work on my logo, she kept grabbing the book and flipping through it and said, "okay. I really have to get this."

I encourage anyone (men, too) who has a dream of starting a business to get this book. My only wish is that it was edited to remain Canadian in the spelling, but this is a superminor quibble.

GET THE BOOK, PEOPLE.

Cheers,
Liz Parker
Publicist

The perfect book for anyone starting a creative business!, June 4, 2008
AMAZING!!! What an enjoyable & resourceful read for anyone considering starting their own business...Hilarious & Edgy, I read it cover to cover and got loads of great ideas for my new creative business venture..thank you ladies...FIVE STARS hands down! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

BRAVA BARBARA HANNAH GRUFFERMAN!, April 4, 2010
So I'm channel surfing one morning, and I stop on the Today Show when I notice two beautiful and vibrant women, one of which was Barbara Hannah Grufferman. I've never seen her before, but I was so taken by her enthusiastic desire to share her obvious knowledge on aging healthily and beautifully, that I was prompted to pause the show right then and there and order two copies of her book on Amazon, one for me and one for a gal pal. I received them yesterday, and found myself savoring, albeit very quickly, every page I read which was filled with sensible and concise information. I find myself on page 141, and just noticed that I now have several pages which are highlighted and dog-eared. Clearly, it is not necessary for me to finish this book to leave a review. I fell in love immediately with her book from a practical standpoint, since it is "highlighter" friendly due to the gauge of paper! I am also loving how she has listed her recommended products by their manufacturer names for vitamins, and for her choices for recommended food products too! That is extremely helpful to me, since, while in past resources I've read I've received general information about which types of foods are recommended, I have never seen an actual list of foods by their makers which were tested by the author as well as other professionals, and from several price points too! And I cannot tell you how impressed I am with her recommendations for how to exercise after 50 (I have actually been a gym bunny myself and have cross-trained since I was 39) so I know that her plan is actually doable for every woman over 50, beginner or otherwise. Further, she recommends a breakdown for each day of the week! I've read so many how-to books about health and beauty, and have never been as excited about starting a total and comprehensive program for overall health that can truly be a lifestyle I can enjoy into my 90's. I am more inspired than ever to be the best woman I can possible be, and for that I am grateful Barbara! Now, off to continue reading to gather information about how to have healthier and more beautiful skin! But first, MY recommendation. Don't just buy this book for yourself. Buy one for your favorite gal pal too so you can both live the wealth of being the best of everything after 50 together!

Fun and Informative, May 8, 2010

Marvelous for women and men -- and for men with an important ..., April 30, 2010

Great Info, August 26, 2010

Comprehensive Reference in an Easy-to-Use Format, August 18, 2010

YAY!!! Almost 50 and Loved It!!!, August 12, 2010
I took this book with me on a recent vacation to North Carolina. I enjoyed reading all the helpful advice supplied by Barbara Hannah Grufferman. I am less than 1 year away from turning 50, but I don't think you have to be 50 to read this book. This book is about many topics affecting woman, some before turning 50 such as menopause. I also am one of those people that like to be prepared for life's changes, and am actually looking forward to turning 50 and growing older. I found this book very informative of what to expect when I turn 50 and how to be the best I can be in the future. The author researched many interesting topics, and got the expert in that field to give advice. I especially enjoyed reading about the proper care for curly hair by the expert Lorraine Massey of Deva Salon. Her book titled Curly Girl is one of the best for people with curly hair. The topics in this book are all things I am interested in. I am always reading books about hair, style, exercise and getting organized. What I especially liked about this book is it has all the information about many topics of interest all in one book. The topics discussed are: Eating well, Exercise, Styling your hair, Fashion, Finances, Clutter, Menopause, Sex and Good Health. All these topics are pertinent to women even before they hit 50. If your 50 years old or almost turning 50 I think you will enjoy this book, and learn so much from it and use it often as a reference. The book has inspired me to exercise more and to do pushups which I always had a problem doing in the past. My only disagreement with the book is the author recommends wearing skin colored undergarments. I actually think it is fun to wear different color undergarments. Sometimes wearing a wild undergarment that nobody else knows I am wearing makes me very happy and sexy. Other than that I would say I agree with all the advice of the author and her experts.

A good reference-type book for the "50 & over" set, July 20, 2010

All Wrapped up in one "How To" Manual, June 7, 2010

wonderful resource for nearly everything!, May 12, 2010

Really the best of everything....for all women....., May 26, 2010

Editorial Review

Whether you've been living paycheck-to-paycheck, are trying to save for a down payment on your first home, or are hoping to one day retire in comfort, ON MY OWN TWO FEET can help.This succinct guide will teach you how to balance your desire to live well today with the need to save and invest for tomorrow.In this lively, no-nonsense financial primer you will learn:

* How much of your income to save
* How to avoid the perils of credit card debt
* How to create a budget you can live with (and still have fun!)
* How to invest wisely using a powerful, keep-it-simple plan
* How to deal with real life situations - such as figuring out how much home or car you can afford & how to handle money when you couple up with that someone special

ON MY OWN TWO FEET redefines Personal Finance 101.The sooner you apply the basic financial concepts highlighted by Thakor and Kedar, the more likely it is that you'll achieve common life goals such as owning a home, providing for yourself or your family, taking fun vacations, and retiring in comfort -- all free from financial stress. ... Read more

Reviews

Concise and practical, June 8, 2007
As a financial professional, I have generally been critical of personal finance authors because they struggle to condense their vast knowledge into a book that is readable for the average person. Thakor and Kedar succeed where others have failed. In this book, they manage to cover all of the basic principles of personal finance (savings, credit, insurance, budgeting, investing, retirement, major purchases, taxes and money in relationships) in less than 200 pages. The book flows more like a conversation with a friend than a textbook, which made it an enjoyable and quick read. Also, I was very impressed with the quality of the advice given in this book. The authors stick to tried-and-true principles that are both effective and simple.

I highly recommend this book.

The financial voice for our generation, May 23, 2007
On My Own Two Feet is simply the best personal finance book! I have tried to read a finance book cover to cover and could not get through one until this incredible book. The information is clearly presented, and what sets it apart, is the advice of Kedar and Thakor is highly actionable. Since reading the book I have made several changes and already feel better about my financial "health."

"On My Own Two Feet" Authors Know Their Money, May 23, 2007
I was lucky enough to meet the authors of this book, Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar at a recent retreat at the Woodhull Institute for Ethical Leadership. I was struck by three things: 1) their passion to educate young women about personal finances, 2) their snazzy dress sense, and 3) the fact that THESE WOMEN KNOW THEIR STUFF! Both are amazingly successful in the male-dominated world world of finance, and gave me the instant feeling that I could navigate it too, all I needed was some simple basics. Manisha and Sharon are able to look at money from the perspective of MY generation, the 18-35 year-olds who don't stay in one job forever, and will enter the work force with student loans, MySpace accounts, and only a brief window to start retirement planning. "On My Own Two Feet" handles the current reality of money and finance with pizzazz and spice, and a feeling of support from the "Divas of Finance". If you want to feel more financially secure, and do it soon, pick up this book now! Then send it to your girlfriends, cousins, sisters, mothers...and maybe even a man or two. After all, everyone needs some money help, sometimes!

Buy this book!!!, May 31, 2007
I am embarrased to say this, but when I first saw the book I didn't think I needed it. I graduated from college, had some savings in the bank, and was married. I figured that I'd always have enough money, and that I could rely on my husband's financial expertise. Um, no. Not to sound preachy, but as a woman I need to be smarter than that. I have to plan better and prepare to always take care of myself.

Maybe the best part about this book, aside from the advice, is that it's fun and just a great, easy read. The authors don't preach and you know going in that they are just like you. They don't make you feel dumb and the advice is simple and easy to follow. Thankfully I didn't pass the book up. I would've regretted it.

Fun read - great gift, May 29, 2007
For some time now I have been struck by the amazing lack of financial acumen that my generation has been blessed with. (I count myself in that category, since despite being educated enough to know better I have made a couple of my own blunders). A few years ago I started looking for books to educate my then pre-teen niece to start her financial life on the right foot. We started with "The Millionaire Next Door", then tried "Millionaire Women Next Door". While she enjoyed both books, they were not written as the practical "how to" guides that I thought someone her age should be looking for.

In the meantime, I have grown to know and manage a cadre of women between the ages of 18 and 30, and increasingly realize the need for common sense financial guides to help smart, motivated women make good decisions. I was told about this book - On My Own Two Feet - and it definitely hits the jackpot. It covers the major topics that need to be addressed (savings, credit cards, insurance), but comes off as fun and collaborative. Financial goals are set that seem realistic and reasonable, not extreme and out of reach. If a young woman follows the advice in this book, she will be in a position to manage her finances for life. At a minimum, she will ask the right questions of herself and her partner when making major decisions.

I have bought several copies of the book as birthday/graduation presents and am eager to see their response. I definitely recommend this book.

A must read for any modern woman!, May 24, 2007
This book does an excellent job of presenting financial advice in a concise, clear manner. It's a very quick read with a wealth of information included. The authors don't talk over your head either. After reading it I now feel motivated to take a look at my own finances and put their suggestions to work for me. I will most likely refer to it for several years to come as simply a good "reference guide" just to make sure I stay on track with everything. I especially found the section on discussing money with your significant other very informative. I wish I had had this advice years ago! To me, it was probably one of the most important psrts of the whole book. I now feel very confident that I can stand "on my own two feet" financially after reading this phenominal book.

Everything you need to know about personal finance (and nothing you don't!), May 24, 2007
I've read more than a few personal finance books, and I've always finished them feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to apply the information to my life. Not anymore! Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar's book, "On My Own Two Feet," is the personal finance bible I've been waiting for. This book answers the questions I've often wondered about -- Should I rent or buy a home? Buy or lease a car? What kind of insurance do I really need? How do I prioritize paying off debt, shorter-term savings and saving for retirement? The book teaches young women what to do to build for our futures, and perhaps more importantly, what we don't need to (or shouldn't) be doing at this point in our lives. I highly recommend this book to any young woman who wants to take control of her finances once and for all!

Great start towards financial responsibility, June 16, 2010
Prince Charming is not a financial plan. That's the sentiment echoed by this author who wants women to stop looking for a man to rid them of their financial woes and instead, take charge of their own financial future. Understanding that financial matters can be intimidating to people, but especially women, she quickly gets to the point without bogging the reader down with boring or too complex details.

Below are the different subjects discussed in this book and the kinds of issues discussed with each:

SAVINGS
-- Why you should save
-- How much should you save
-- Where you should store your savings

CREDIT CARDS
-- What the true cost of credit card debt is
-- Why it's harmful to only making the minimum monthly payment
-- What the common credit card pitfalls are (like having too many cards or thinking your interest rate is set in stone, etc...)
-- Understanding your credit score
-- How your credit score influences your life
-- How to find your credit score
-- What your score is based on and how you can improve it

INSURANCE
-- The 3 critical types of insurance you need
-- Suggestions for purchasing insurance
-- Where to buy insurance

BUDGETING
-- How to make a budget (there's a great pie chart that shows exactly how to divide up your expenses)
-- What type of expenses you should expect

INVESTING
-- Why you should invest your money
-- How to invest your savings
-- What your investing options are
-- Suggestions on the smartest types of investment you should make
-- Q & A portion (like, "Is it wise to invest in real estate?")

RETIREMENT
-- What type of retirement is out there (employer sponsored and individual)

HOME
-- Should you rent or buy?
-- Making sure you don't buy a home you can't afford
-- Buying a home the smart way

CAR
-- Making sure you don't buy a car you can't afford
-- Should you buy new or used? Lease or buy?

INCOME TAXES
-- What types of taxes you owe on your income
-- When you pay your taxes
-- How to file your taxes
-- The types of documents you'll need when you visit your tax preparer

LOVE AND MONEY
-- Why financial compatibility is so important
-- What kind of money talk couples should have with each other
-- Deciding whether to have a joint or separate bank account
-- Deciding who will handle which financial chores
-- How often couples should do a financial check-up
-- How to protect your finances (especially for stay-at-home moms)
-- Handling sticky subjects like pre-nups
-- Why it's unwise to assume your Prince Charming knows more about money than you

Some women might be embarrassed not being as knowledgable about these subjects as they'd like, but in the last chapter, the author offer 4 empowering insights about money to make them feel better:
(1) Most people don't have a clue about money even if they pretend they do
(2) Things aren't always what they seem
(3) Literally millions are intimidated by money matters
(4) After reading this book, you'll know more than the vast majority of Americans

In the end, I thought the author did a great job taking an intimidating subject and making it more user-friendly for women. This book offers a great start towards achieving financial responsibility.

A Life-Saving Book, September 10, 2008
This book has been life-saving to me. I'm from a surface-affluent (actually financially volatile) family, and nobody ever taught me anything about personal finance except to pay bills on time, use credit cards "wisely," and save when I can. It wasn't enough, and I made choices based on perceived (and sometimes actual) needs that put me in a hole I was too embarrassed to talk about and too ignorant to save myself from. When I saw this book last April, I was instantly drawn in by the introduction. The clear, positive, and straightforward advice empowered me. I now have $4000 in savings instead of $4, my credit card debt is down from $14,500 to $8,500, I am saving for a down payment on a house I can comfortably afford, and I am contributing to my employer-sponsored savings plan for retirement. In short, I am on much more solid ground. I can even navigate [...] with reasonable confidence! Every woman should buy this book. Even if you think you know it all, but it: there are true gems here. And if you have never thought much about personal finance, DEFINITELY buy it for yourself and any woman you care about!

Women and Money 101, September 11, 2007
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Taxes and savings and stocks, oh my! If you've felt that looking at your personal finances was like stepping into Oz, take heart! Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar have written a clear guidebook to finding your way home to financial security.

I know. It doesn't seem possible to find all of the financial information that you might need in one small book. But this is no ordinary book, and these are no ordinary authors. Ms. Thakor and Ms. Kedar both hold MBA's from Harvard's prestigious Business School and are Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholders. These are two intelligent women who have made it their mission to empower other women to come home to financial freedom.

On My Own Two Feet was written by women for women as a tool to demystify the world of finances. In plain language, this book covers each of these areas critical to your financial health: savings, credit cards, credit scores, insurance, budgeting, investing, retirement, purchasing a home, and taxes. Not only do the authors define all terms, but they also give step-by-step instructions to improving your financial situation.

The true brilliance of this book lies in its versatility. You can come to this book, loaded with credit card debt, and you will find a concrete plan to eliminate that debt. You can also come to this book wondering whether to invest in an IRA, index fund or individual stocks, and you will receive clear guidelines. Wondering how to improve your credit score? This book can help. Wondering how to find your credit score? This book will give you the exact web address that you can use to get that score.

Please, do not suffer in silence because you've never had the opportunity to learn how to take charge of your financial life. On My Own Two Feet is an outstanding teacher--a reference that will point the way home, no matter where you are on your financial journey.

Armchair Interviews says: Excellent financial reference for women of all ages. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Women make up almost half of today's labor force, but in corporate America they don't share half of the power. Only four of the Fortune 500 company CEOs are women, and it's only been in the last few years that even half of the Fortune 500 companies have more than one female officer.

A major reason for this? Most women were never taught how to play the game of business.

Throughout her career in the supercompetitive, male-dominated media industry, Gail Evans, one of the country's most powerful executives, has met innumerable women who tell her that they feel lost in the workplace, almost as if they were playing a game without knowing the directions.

She tells them that's exactly the case: Business is indeed a game, and like any game, there are rules to playing well. For the most part, Gail has discovered, women don't know them.

Men know these rules because they wrote them, but women often feel shut out of the process because they don't know when to speak up, when to ask for responsibility, what to say at an interview, and a lot of other key moves that can make or break a career.

Now, in her book Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman, Gail Evans reveals the secrets to the playbook of success and teaches women at all levels of the organization--from assistant to vice president--how to play the game of business to their advantage.

Sharing with humor and candor her years of lessons from corporate life, Gail Evans gives readers practical tools for making the right decisions at work.Among the rules you will learn are:

• How to Keep Score at Work
• When to Take a Risk
• How to Deal with the Imposter Syndrome
• Ten Vocabulary Words That Mean Different Things to Men and Women
• Why Men Can be Ugly, and You Can't
• When to Quit Your Job

Evans is not saying that every woman has to play exactly by men's rules--not at all. Women bring many inherent traits to the workplace that can provide them with a potential advantage over men, such as a woman's ability to form relationships, or her intuition. But women do need to know the basic rules so that they can understand the full consequences of their every action and how it makes an impact on their career.

An honest and practical handbook that reveals important insights into relationships between men and women and work, Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman, is a must-read for every woman who wants to leverage her power in the workplace.

... Read more

Reviews

EVERY DAUGHTER SHOULD GIVE THIS BOOK TO HER MOTHER, April 9, 2000
If you are a woman and have ever needed a reason to stop taking everything everybody says or does personally, this book says it. This is the guidebook to business that baby-boomer-females-in-the-businessplace never had. Gail Evans has lived what she preaches and speaks in a language women can understand. I was shaking my head "yes" throughout the book, as I recognized my own situation and frustrations in workplace. I knew it had something to do with my gender, but other than pointing the finger of blame at all men, I could not pinpoint what was happening in this male-created domain. I guess I thought I was the only person (read woman) who couldn't figure out the rules for success in the workplace. I also needed to hear the words from a very successful woman who learned by doing. I learned that I can still be a woman, but succeed in the male-created, male-dominated business world, and not feel like an imposter...which is exactly what one of her chapters deals with. You don't have to be a sell-out, but quit taking everything so damn personal....this is business. This is not a book written by a man who thinks he knows what women are thinking. And, it is not a book written by a woman who is so well-connected, or glamorous and beautiful, that you would wonder how she could not be a success in the businessplace. This is a book written by "one of us", and concentrates on exactly why many women struggle so hard to succeed in her job, no matter what that job is. If you are a manager, or a clerk, or anything in between, this book will help you as a female. I am giving a copy of this book to every working woman that I know...with a few exceptions; those who have already figured out the rules. Now I know why they are so successful, and it has nothing to do with their luck and my unluckiness. I feel so much better and unburdened after reading this book. I am going to keep it at my bedside and use it as my affirmation support..."I will not personalize workplace issues...I will not.....".

2 Savvy Ways Women Can Get Ahead, June 25, 2000
As women we need to educate ourselves about the business and financial worlds. For finances I strongly recommend "SIMPLE MONEY SOLUTIONS: 10 WAYS YOU CAN STOP FEELING OVERWHELEMED BY MONEY AND START MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU," by Nancy Lloyd. Nancy is the personal finance commentator for NPR's Morning Edition, a former Federal Reserve Board Economist and a former IBM executive and tells you the insider secrets that most financial planners will not reveal. It's a quick read but brimming with important and easy-to-follow financial moves. "PLAY LIKE A MAN, WIN LIKE A WOMAN" shows you the insider secrets about how men play in the corporate world. Both books will prepare you and your daughters (or even sons) to make their way in the real world without shooting themselves in the foot.

A Helpful Book for Men to Read!, April 30, 2000
This book is pitched as one that is helpful for women. I am sure that is the case. Not being a woman, I have to share its benefits from my perspective.

I have been a mentor for many working women, and this book does a nice job of addressing the kinds of issues that the women have brought up with me as well as the ones that I have brought up with them. In the past, I have provided copies of How to Be a Star at Work as a way to assist these women. In the future, I will provide this book, as well.

Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman does an excellent job of explaining how relationships and results need to be balanced at work. That is a juggling act that seems to confuse many women, and I found this book to be accurate and constructive in this area.

Interestingly, I find that a lot of men miss these points, too. I would also recommend this book to male colleagues and subordinates, both to make them more effective and to improve their understanding of how to communicate with female colleagues.

Basically, the book is all about miscommunication and misconception stalls that occur at work, especially the ones that tend to occur among men and women. The book is very effective in exploring those stalls and inproviding sound advice for overcoming the same stalls.

The only weakness I found in the book is that some subtle points about business interactions were missed. A lot of male aggressiveness and bluffing was described as just being acceptable, while the same thing by women is unacceptable. What Ms. Evans missed is that there is usually a kind of kidding humor involved to let everyone know that the aggressor is simply indicating a strong desire to play, backed up by self-confidence. That takes the sting out of the aggressiveness. When some women are aggressive, they often forget to use the kidding humor that makes the aggressiveness tolerable to all.

Perhaps the greatest strength of the book is that it permits the reader to choose her/his own goals (and those may not be material success or power) while adapting the advice to one's own personality and preferences. Basically, any advice we get that suggest we act like the individuals we are is good advice. Well done, Ms. Evans!

Shattering the 2 Last Glass Ceilings, July 1, 2000
I'm thrilled that women like Gail Evans and Nancy Lloyd (author of "SIMPLE MONEY SOLUTIONS: 10 WAYS YOU CAN STOP FEELING OVERWHELMED BY MONEY AND START MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU) are finally in a position to let other women in on the "secrets" of career and financial success.

So many of us have to reinvent the wheel at work and with our finances. Until we learn to play like men at work and with our finances we will never reach our true potential.

I just wish these two books were around when I was starting out--I could have avoided a lot of costly career and financial missteps. There is sage wisdom in both books!

Terrible, inconsistent advice, waste of time, July 7, 2000
I have owned my own business for years, and I disagree with virtually all of this book. While it has some snippets of good advice for women [don't be hesitant, apologetic or act unsure], it also had some ridiculous inconsistencies and stereotypes.

For example, Evans almost worships the way men do things, and portrays all women as incompetent at business, given their alleged stereotypical upbringing of playing with dolls and nurturing. She reinforces every negative stereotype about women. She discusses how men are naturally confident, and suggests that women pretend they are confident, even if they are not; however, in a later chapter, she says, "be yourself; be a woman; use your feminine wiles," because if you pretend, they will see through you. That's just not consistent advice.

She says women must appear serious about their work; but then later says it won't hurt your career to go off on the "Mommy track" for a few years. That is simply unrealistic in most companies.

In early chapters, she says women have to demand what they feel they deserve in the workplace just like men; yet, at the end of the book she contradicts this by grousing about how men can get away with things we women can't [they are allowed to get angry and be rude, fat and ugly; we absolutely cannot]. So which is it? Do we try to act like them; or like women; hard to tell from this rambling and inconsistent book.

Finally, the worst advice of all! She tells women they can contribute more to society and their careers by trying to work their way up in a large corporation, rather than leaving to start their own business, or by getting more fulfilling work at a smaller employer. This is preposterous. Even Ms. Evans is not at the top of the heap at CNN, and probably never will be. Her book is to justify her own choices.

As a woman who left a very successful career in a male-dominated field to start her own very successful business, I would recommend to women looking for career advice that, unless they want to spend their career working in the middle of a giant corporation, and being an employee all their life, don't bother reading this book.

If you are under 35, this book is not for you, August 11, 2000
If you are under 35, then this book is probably not for you. The author describes a number of supposed women who I just do not recognize in myself or my friends. These women are the ones who just do not get it, that is the male game of business. The author of course, is one of the few women who does get it. In fact the author treats most women as if they were 1950s steryotypes who somehow found themselves timewarped to today. For the most part the advice was un-believably poor and quite frankly sexist. The author seems to have collected steryotypes of the working women and come up with an ape the man approach to counter the steryotype. There are far too many sporting analogies and one is left with the feeling that the author has never really played competitve female team sports. If she had she would know that girls like to win too. Often she borders on the ridiculous. For example she suggests that women can take 10 years off to raise their children and re-enter the work force without any delay or negative effect to their career. She neglets the fact that today, the pace of management and technical evolution is so great that no one, man or women, can easily re-enter the work force after a ten year absence. In making such a claim she does not turn to statistical evidence, rather, she draws from her own experience. While taking time off to raise the kids she was involved in part-time businesses, charity work, by her own account she "managed the Moscow bureau for three years" and had a fleet of baby sitters and maids who looked after the house and kids. This is not really "takeing time off" to raise the kids, nor does it have any relavance to those women with children who can not afford her extravagant support system.

Finally there is no attempt to adress real issues such as the challenge of raising a family while working and simultaneously having a great professional life. She does not engage in any serious reflections on gender attitudes to work, nor does she adress the real steryotypes that women endure, such as a "women with children should be at home", or "women are not prime income earners so we can pay them less", or "women will leave and have kids anyway so they are more costly to my business then a man." I particularily disliked the section on wife, daughter, mother, misstress where the author states these are the only kinds of women men know how to relate to (don't they have sisters?), so you must choose which role you will play at work. Seriously young professional women today prefer to be considered a worker when at work and a wife, mother, daughter or mistress only in their private life. I really regret having bought this book.

Highly Recommended for Men, Too!, February 18, 2001
Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman is described as being helpful for women. I am sure that is the case.

Not being a woman, I have to share its benefits from my perspective.

I have enjoyed being a mentor for many working women, and this book does a nice job of addressing the kinds of issues that these women have brought up with me as well as the ones that I have brought up with them. In the past, I have provided copies of How to Be a Star at Work as a way to assist these women. In the future, I will provide this book, as well.

Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman does an excellent job of explaining how the emphasis on relationships and results need to be balanced at work. That is a juggling act that seems to confuse many women, and I found this book to be accurate and constructive in this area.

Interestingly, I find that a lot of men miss these points, too. In these cases, the results are usually overemphasized at the expense of the relationships. I will also recommend this book to male colleagues and subordinates, both to make them more effective and to improve their understanding of how to communicate with female colleagues.

Basically, the book is all about miscommunication and misconception stalls that occur at work, especially the ones that tend to occur among men and women. The book is very effective in exploring those stalls and inproviding sound advice for overcoming the same stalls.

The only weakness I found in the book is that some subtle points about business interactions were missed. A lot of male aggressiveness and bluffing was described as just being acceptable, while the same thing by women is unacceptable. What Ms. Evans missed is that there is usually a kind of kidding humor involved to let everyone know that the aggressor is simply indicating a strong desire to play, backed up by self-confidence. That posture takes the sting out of the aggressiveness. When some women are aggressive, they may forget to use the kidding humor and relaxed tone that makes the aggressiveness tolerable to all.

Perhaps the greatest strength of the book is that it permits the reader to choose her/his own goals (and those may not be material success or power) while adapting the advice to one's own personality and preferences. Basically, any advice we get that suggest we act like the individuals we are is good advice.

After you read and apply this book, I suggest that you think about applying it to nonwork situations, as well. Your focus on relationships versus results may be out of balance in those circumstances, too.

Find the perfect balance!

Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman, March 15, 2001
Could be subtitled; How Not To Shoot Yourself in the Foot. I'd like to join in with the positive reviews of this book. I'm a business school student and I read this book on the recommendation of a visiting female executive. I've since lent it out to my classmates and have watched it be passes around from woman to woman. We love it! Evans offers simple, easy to relate to examples of behavior women adopt in the workplace that can be "career limiting." She openly challenges the reader to see which of her observations fit and which don't to each woman's unique situation. A well balanced, honest set of suggestions and observations that will benefit any woman seeking to advance in her career.

Superb Work, May 22, 2000
I thoroughly enjoyed the author's book because it enlightened me, as a manager, on areas that need to be discussed with my team members, such as career progression and fair play. I personally will benefit from her ideas--the book is chock full of them. Highly Recommend it.

Also recommend "The Leader's Guide: 15 Essential Skills" --- which is a great book on management.

Woe to the male exec who thinks this book is just for women., April 10, 2000
Gail Evans shares her vast corporate experience with women on the way up, giving them a glimpse at the playbook men in business have instinctively used for years. All working women need to read this to learn how they may be unwittingly holding themselves back from achieving the success they want at work. Men need to read it to learn more about themselves, and more about the women who may some day be their bosses. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Combining fascinating research with revealing commentary from hundreds of women, this groundbreaking book explores the personal and societal reasons women seldom ask for what they need, want, and deserve at home and at work–and shows how they can develop this crucial skill.

By neglecting to negotiate her starting salary for her first job, a woman may sacrifice over half a million dollars in earnings by the end of her career. Yet, as research reveals, men are four times more likely to ask for higher pay than are women with the same qualifications. From career promotions to help with child care, studies show time and again that women don’t ask–and frequently don’t even realize that they can. Women Don’t Ask offers real-life examples of the differences between the negotiating habits of men and women, and guides women in retooling their attitudes and approaches. Discover how to:

• Take the first step–choosing to negotiate at all
• Develop a comfortable, effective negotiation style
• Overcome fear, personal entitlement issues, and gender stereotypes ... Read more

Reviews

Powerful!!, February 4, 2004
I read this book in almost one sitting. It has compelling factual data and riveting anecdotes. But, unlike Backlash, by Susan Faludi, which was almost totally negative, the authors also look at women's strengths in negotiation, and give some ideas for how to put their ideas into action.

It's not a how-to-negotiate book; I've spent the last 23 years practicing corporate law, negotiating sophisticated legal transactions and running an in-house department. This book goes beyond "how to" into "why". Essential reading for any woman!

Familiar, But Well-Supported, March 6, 2005
There isn't anything surprising in here to any woman who has been around the business world for a while. However, the book's real value is that it provides empirical evidence to support Everywoman's anecdotal observations.

What I found most useful about this book is evidence cited that women's "tend and befriend," cooperative approach to negotiation results in greater gains in the long run, in part because of women's ability to reframe. It also confirmed my impression that women are more successful in business when they soften their mode of delivery (although not their message).

The authors further reframe the scope of "negotiation" to include women's personal, including homemaking, lives, to remind us all that equality should not end at the thresholds to our homes.

Ultimately, every negotiator has to find his or her own personal style. This book made me feel just that much better about including lipstick and high heels in my arsenal.

Good set up for "Ask For It", March 3, 2008
This book does a wonderful job of sharing all the research which explains why women are less likely to negotiate, less likely to ask for what they want, and less likely to get what they want. However, what's missing from this book is how women can overcome these barriers. The sequel to this book, "Ask For It", does a great job answering that question. If you're looking for ideas of how to improve woman's likelihood to negotiate and a woman's likelihood to ask, buy the sequel. If you're interested in WHY women are less likely to ask, stick with this book!

Highly recommended, January 28, 2004
This book is incredibly well-researched and thoughtfully laid out. It builds its case beautifully with interesting examples, then backs it up with empirical research. And credit to the authors' writing styles, for they do not point fingers or whine about the way things are. And they never fall into a dry style of writing. The book flows nicely, and is easy to read.
Most importantly, they shine a light on issues women have in asking for what they deserve and by laying out their case in such a well-articulated fashion, they help provide answers that we can all act upon and move forward with.
The issues that the book explores impact women across all facets of their life -- from negotiating child care responsibilites to getting the recognition and compensation they deserve on the job. As a co-author of the business book "The Old Girls' Network", I see these issues in evidence in how women buiness owners also negotiate -- for contracts, for customers, in how they price their products and reticence about charging appropriately. So, I would say this book has broad appeal to stay at home moms, women in corporate life and for the large contingent of female entrepreneurs. It is a must-have addition to all of our reading lists, and one that should bring positive results.

Highly Recommended!, February 29, 2004
The debate on gender equity often emphasizes that women earn less than men with similar experience. Authors Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever say that while women may indeed be the victims of external forces, they also to some extent may suffer from their own inability, unwillingness or aversion to negotiate or make demands. In fact, men negotiate four times as frequently as women, and get better results. Men are much more apt to make demands and ask for benefits, pay increases and so forth. Men make more money not necessarily because the system is overtly discriminatory - though it well may be - but because men demand more. The book tends to belabor its point, and sometimes the evidence does not seem as well-presented as it might have been, but We found that it sheds useful light on a knotty social problem. Perhaps it will spur more women to fight - or to continue to fight - on their own behalf.

First Rate, October 23, 2003
First Rate

Linda Babcock is the James Mellon Walton Professor of Economics at the H. John Heinz III School of Public Policy and Management of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and is a well-published specialist in negotiation and dispute resolution.

Sara Laschever is a prolific writer and editor with extensive experience in gender research. Ms. Laschever was a research associate and principal interviewer for Project Access, a Harvard University study of the effect of gender on the advancement of women in science. She holds a Master's degree from Boston University.

Women Don't Ask is a work with multiple interwoven themes. At its core, it is an important study of gender differences in negotiations. It is also a handbook for women offering concrete advice on how to improve their performance in negotiations.

Still further, it is a book about possibilities. Centering on traditional areas of women's strengths in sharing information and building and preserving relationships, it concludes that women are potentially in a position to use these qualities with great effect in collaborative negotiating environments. Gender differences, therefore, include both hurdles to be overcome and promises for enhanced performance for women in negotiations.

Lastly, the reader will find the book presents a compelling case for the necessity of participation and skill in negotiations as an increasingly critical survival mechanism for both women and men in contemporary life. Although focusing primarily on women, the authors present an array of general statistics defining an environment in which all workers need to bargain repeatedly with a succession of employers for salaries and benefits.

The central thesis of this book is that the enhancement of negotiating performance is essential to improving the quality of life for women. The corollary message for those many men who do not negotiate well is equally clear. Negotiation is a critical skill for both sexes. This work, of course, is focused on enhancing women's skills.

Why don't women negotiate well, because they do not ask, the authors assert. Using multiple studies and over 100 interviews with women and men in the U.S., Britain and Europe, the authors draw a portrait of gender differences in negotiations.

A study of starting salaries received by recently graduating students at Carnegie Mellon University is central to the authors' conclusions. Starting salaries reported by the students showed that women received starting salaries averaging $4,000 below their male peers. Why?

Fifty-seven percent of the men negotiated their employment package vs. only seven percent of the women. This book explores the significant economic impacts of the decision by some graduates to negotiate vs. the decision of others not to negotiate at all. The results for those who negotiated, both women and men, produced an average gain of over $4,000 per year in starting salary, almost precisely the gender pay gap reported by the group itself. The conclusion, of course, is that the gender difference in rates of initiation of salary negotiations is directly correlated to the gap.

A variety of other research studies back up this assumption. The authors cite a study showing that men are two to three times as likely to initiate negotiations as women (p.3). Another study reports that twenty percent of women executives stated that they never negotiate at all (p. 113). Clearly, as the authors point out, the most important negotiating tactic is "choosing to negotiate at all (p.6).

Since this is a book about women and negotiating, the authors move forward to explore why the socialization of women leads to an avoidance of negotiations or poorer performance when they participate in negotiations. For those forty-three percent of male Carnegie Mellon graduates who also did not negotiate their starting salaries, there is a clear and equally important warning, but their answer is not the subject of this book.

"Women set lower targets and settle for less in their negotiations because they lack confidence in their ability to negotiate effectively," the authors tell us (p.140). The reasons for this gender difference are clearly spelled out in the book. It will be a revelation for many men, perhaps most, but my own informal sample of women found that many of them know most of the reasons already. What they do not know is how to change it.

Of particular interest, therefore, is the remedy Babcock and Laschever propose for this situation. The answer for improving the performance of women in negotiations, the authors assert, lies in self-management training. "... Increasing women's feelings of control over the negotiation process eliminated the gender gap in performance" (p.114).

Readers will find an interesting and persuasive exploration of this research carefully linking to their earlier work. You will, of course, need to read the book to see why they believe this is so.

The authors conclude with a statement of belief that, freed from anxiety and other social scriptures that are present barriers, women can achieve extraordinary success as negotiators by capitalizing on their other gender based qualities. Women are listeners, sharers and relationship builders and these gender-based factors, the authors assert, position them for leadership in the new collaborative negotiations thrust, the authors assert.

There is much more here than this review can explore, including a chapter on negotiating at home as well as in the work place.

It is a well-researched, carefully analyzed and interesting book that is certain to be widely read, discussed and debated throughout the organizational world and is, therefore, a "must read" both women and men.

Highly recommended.

John D. Baker, Ph.D.
Editor, The Negotiator Magazine

Much-needed research, October 1, 2003
An invaluable reference took, the authors have delivered much-needed research to support their arguments. Rather than offer the usual gender-based diatribe, they detail important findings from the best sources and offer valid, pointed arguments while asking challenging questions. Readers will be rewarded with insights into the condition of gender relations in modern work environments as well as benefiting from the authors' well-supported views.

Pretty good read, March 15, 2010
The premise of this book is very interesting and the book provides a great deal of evidence to support their thesis. That being said, there is really only so much evidence one needs to read in order to understand the thesis. The book would be just as useful as a white paper, rather than an entire book.

Should be required reading for women before interviewing, January 9, 2007
This book is full of eye-opening thoughts that I found so crucial to my own sense of empowerment as I faced post-graduate school job negotiation opportunities. There are so many things I would never have thought of as options to set on the negotiating table, not to mention so many things about how I behave, what my expectations are for myself, and how they differ from those of a typical male perspective. Even though I am educated in a human social science field and consider myself a liberal woman, I had A LOT to learn from this book. I liked the mix of examples of diverse individual women's experiences along with data from the authors' and others' relevant studies.

Not Asking Can Cost You Millions, December 27, 2005
Babcock's research shows that women's "low sense of personal entitlement - uncertainty about what their work is worth or how much they deserve to get for what they do - often deters them from asking for more than they already have." And, she points out that the costs of the failure to ask can be high when the issue is salaries: "negotiating your starting salary for your first job can produce a gain of more than a half million dollars by the end of your career." If you read her book, you'll find out why women don't ask for what they deserve, why women should ask for what they deserve, and how they should ask for what they deserve both at home and at work. You'll also get good advice about what organizations (e.g., your employer) can do to create an environment that affirms a woman's right to ask for what she deserves.

... Read more

Editorial Review

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of French Women Don't Get Fat comes every woman's guide to navigating the world of work, living the good life, and savoring every minute of it.

When Mireille Guiliano became a senior executive and spokesperson for Veuve Clicquot, she took the Champagne to the top of the luxury market, using her distinctive French woman's philosophy and style. Now she uses those same talents and savoir faire to help readers pop their own corks and get the mostout of life. Drawing on her experiences at the front lines and highest echelons of the business world, she gives women (and a few men, peut-�tre) the practical advice they need to make the most of work without skimping on all the other good things in life.

With lively lessons, stories, and helpful hints, Mireille teaches every reader how to identify her own passions and talents, improve her communication skills, balance work and life, cope with everyday stress, turn herself into a winning brand, and so much more. From acing a job interview or performance review to hosting a simple but elegant dinner party, Mireille tells it like it is as she shares her secrets for achieving happiness and success at any stage in business and life.

Stylish, witty, and wise, Mireille segues easily from the small details to the big picture, never losing sight of what is most important: feeling good, facing challenges, getting ahead, and maximizing pleasure at every opportunity. ... Read more

Reviews

French Women Stay Skinny While Working and Living Well, October 2, 2009

Stating the Obvious May Be Helpful for Some, October 1, 2009

Business and Style Can Go Together, October 8, 2009

Accomplished Woman With Good Advice For Others, December 17, 2009

another excellent piece of work from Guiliano, October 6, 2009

"je ne sais quoi', December 25, 2009

A useful pep talk for women in business, December 11, 2009

a fun read, more fun than most business books!, November 2, 2009

Good advice for a young college grad.....otherwise, skip it., February 17, 2010

I'll unwillingly call it useful., January 17, 2010

Editorial Review

Women are moving around the globe as never before. But for every female executive racking up frequent flier miles, there are multitudes of women whose journeys go unnoticed. Each year, millions leave third world countries to work in the homes, nurseries, and brothels of the first world. This broad-scale transfer of labor results in an odd displacement, in which the female energy that flows to wealthy countries is subtracted from poor ones-easing a 'care deficit' in rich countries, while creating one back home. Confronting a range of topics from the fate of Vietnamese mail-order brides to the importation of Mexican nannies in Los Angeles, Global Woman offers an original look at a world increasingly shaped by mass migration and economic exchange. Collected and with an Introduction by bestselling social critics Barbara Ehrenreich and Arlie Russell Hochschild, this groundbreaking anthology reveals a new era in which the main resource extracted from developing nations is no longer gold or silver, but love. ... Read more

Reviews

Good Overview of Female Migrant Workers, April 11, 2003
...Nevertheless, this book gives the reader valuable insight into the impact and opinions of women migrant workers in the service trades. All of the anthologized authors write in an accessible style free of academic jargon. I was particularly interested in the articles which did not have an American viewpoint and which presented the views of the women (and occasionally men) involved. For example, in various essays we get to meet Dominican women in the sex trade hoping to form relationships with European men; a college-educated Vietnamese women entering into an arranged marriage with an immigrant man holding an unskilled job in the U.S.; Filipina household workers laughing about the rules proposed by prospective Hong Kong employers; and a Sri Lankan man taking over the traditional woman's role to assist migrant relatives working in Saudi Arabia.

There are some gaps here, such as the lack of first-person narratives and the views of Eastern European women working in Western Europe, but no anthology can be all-inclusive. This book is a good start and will be an intersting learning experience for most readers.

Thought provoking but a passive observer with no recommendations, December 31, 2005
Global Woman: Nannies, Maids, and Sex Workers in the New Economy, edited by Barbara Ehrenreich and Arlie Russell Hochschild, Metropolitan Books, Holt & Co, 2002.

Most of us are well aware of the patterns of illegal immigration which bring numerous undocumented workers to the US and other developed countries from less developed countries. Those who work in agriculture, lawn care, and low paying jobs like janitors are well known. This book takes a detailed look at female migrant workers. These include maids, nannies, nurses, those who care for the young and elderly and extends to those kidnaped or sold into the sex slave trade and those who seek marriageable partners in developed countries to obtain visas. A single mother can earn enough in a developed country as a nurse, a nanny or as a prostitute to leave her children behind in the care of a relative and pay for their education and daycare. This process gives her children access to a better education that can lift them out of poverty.

This book is a collection of essays authored with assistance of researchers from numerous third world countries. The sociological aspect is consistent with Ehrenreich's usual works--always rich with social commentary. This time she functions as editor and provides one chapter from her earlier experience at Merry Maids as told in Nickeled and Dimed. Hochschild is professor of sociology at Berkeley.

The major migratory pathways for women are described generally as from south to north. In the US, African American women accounted for 60% of domestics in the 1940s. They have now been replaced by Latinas mostly from Mexico and Central America. In Europe migrants come from Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. In the oil rich Mideast, many come from Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Phillippines, and Sri Lanka. In France, they now come from Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria; in Italy, from Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Cape Verde. Generally, migrants have replaced those who once came from poor rural areas of their own countries.

Several chapters on nannies and their problems are especially informative. The hours are long, overtime is seldom paid, time off it minimal, workers are sometimes farmed out to other families, or required to travel with the family on "holiday." The children often become attached to the nanny as part of the family, but this can result in jealousy on the part of birth mothers. Many nannies leave abruptly after an argument.

Various aspects of the sex trade are explored. In the Dominican Republic, married women may voluntarily go to the larger town of Sosua to work as prostitutes in the sex tourist industry. This good money is used to pay the family bills, but husbands sometimes spend the funds on alcoholism and gambling when the wife is away. Some prostitutes hope for a marriage proposal from German tourists. In Thailand, in the less prosperous mountain districts, daughters once were sold into sex slavery when the economic survival of the family required it. Now, rapid industrialization and rising standard of living have created major growth in sex tourism. Industrial workers have more money to spend on prostitutes. Mountain Thais now are more willing to sell their daughters to fund the purchase of electronics and other consumer goods.

In Viet Nam, the war killed many males and a disproportionate number of males were able to migrate to the US after the war. This has resulted in an over abundance of females. Educated females become un-marriageable. Arranged marriages with US citizens is one solution to this problem.

This book provides perspective on another aspect of the woman's rights movement in developing countries. Apparently several previous books have issued, but this subject has received little attention in the overall scheme of immigration policy. I saw no discussion of how these problems should be addressed. Presumably better laws are needed as well as a willingness to enforce existing laws in the case of the sex slavery and sex tourism. Different solutions seem appropriate in the case of licensed nurses who are aided in getting visas to fill a real shortage. The presence of undocumented migrants working as nannies and domestics is yet another problem. Perhaps different solutions are needed for each group. Mixing all of them in a single volume confuses the issues. The book lacks the impact it could have had.

This book is nicely done and thought provoking, but the absence of proposed solutions is a major omission. A collection of charts provide details of the female migrations. Notes. Bibliography. Index.

Fact-filled, careful study, May 8, 2004
In brief essays, the authors present generally unbiased academic discussions of the globalization of female workers. Though hardly a new phenomenon, it has dramatically increased in the last 50 years and is a topic that is deserving of this type of examination. The topics are clearly delineated between domestic workers, cheap labor and the sex trade - however, there are unfortunates whose experiences range from one to the other out of necessity, desperation or coercion. This harsh reality of the vulnerability of these women is discussed with jargon-free, scholarly precision. Excellent for libraries, research and the well-read individual.

Nice Collection of Essays on Issues Involving Women and Globalization, April 29, 2010
Global Woman presents a nice mix of essays that all discuss issues of the global movement of women, particularly from the Third World to First World. In attempts to gain an income for their families, these women face many struggles. From leaving their families in their native countries to submitting to harsh rules by their employers, these women are always under some constant force or pressure. Globalization has been a topic of much study for the last twenty plus years and many books have focused on the politics and economic effects. More and more studies are now demonstrating the human element and how the global movement of people is one result of globalization, one that has many different affects on other aspects of society. Furthermore, these issues of globalization are not isolated to one segment of the population, we as a whole can benefit from certain global processes, but these same practices can also detriment others as well. If we can begin to understand how issues of globalization affect us and out culture, politics, economies, and society, we can begin to offer solutions.

Each essay, whether recounting the tale of a nanny, maid, or sex worker, paints and intimate picture of the daily lives of these women, their struggles, their successes, and the reasons they continue such work. Most importantly, these narratives aren't solely written in third person, but on the contrary, the authors allow the reader to hear first hand from the women: the nannies who care for children while their own are thousands of miles away; the maids who work under tight restrictions to both their professional and personal lives; and the sex workers who may or may not be exploiting themselves or who may or may not be trafficked. In each account, the women have various reasons for getting into a certain line of work and each job presents positives and negatives. Another important point is that these women are not always treated well and they are not always treated bad, they don't always get to exercise free will and they are not always restrained. The women portrayed are both able to make their own decisions yet are products of the decisions others have made.

Unlike the reviewer who claims the author is extremely feminist and that "all women subject to these conditions are victims of globalization and capitalization," I would argue that these essays illustrate that globalization brings with it many interesting side effects, one in particular the movement of women away from their homes and to other countries where they are tied to a certain work structure. Are these situations ideal? No, of course not, but the point isn't to lecture about the ills of globalization, but just to demonstrate some other aspects of the phenomenon.

I agree somewhat with the reviewer that says no solutions are offered to deal with the problems explored. To an extent there aren't many options presented. On the other side, this book seems to be presenting the issues so that others may find solutions and it never pretends that these essays and authors have all the answers. As the editors note in the introduction, "we hope to make the invisible visible again," (pg.12), to present the issues that immigrant women face and figure out how to "improve the lives and opportunities of migrant women engaged in legal occupations...and prevent trafficking and enslavement" (pg. 13).

While I agree with the review about "the topics are clearly delineated between domestic workers, cheap labor and the sex trade" and that the book is "excellent for libraries, research and the well-read individual," I disagree on the careful, fact-filled study. While there are tons of facts and figures, I'm not clear on where they all come from. I see some in the endnotes, but in many places, figures are provided without citation. Additionally, as one review stated, "there are some gaps here, such as the lack of first-person narratives and the views of Eastern European women working in Western Europe," but as the same person states, "no anthology can be all-inclusive." Indeed, this volume seems more dedicated to issues involving women from the Global South who migrant to northern countries and the editors and authors make no secret of that fact.

Overall, so far, I think Global Women is a decent overview of the issues surrounding globalization and the global movement of women. I think that often, some of the every day, mundane issues are overlooked with a focus on the broader themes. The best part of the book is the narratives of the women themselves, they talk about their situations, their emotions, and it is plain to see how much of a sacrifice they make. Lastly, I think that this collection of essays is a great start for anyone who either wants to know a little about this topic or those who plan to devote their time to future studies of globalization.

Too negative and ideal, July 10, 2009
Not a good read. The author(s) come across as extremely feminist and claim that all women subject to these conditions are victims of globalization and capitalization. I don't buy their theories nor do I find this book very objective in the message they SHOULD be conveying.

nannies and sex workers in same title is offensive, March 5, 2003
As the mother of five that relied on childcare during the many years of single parenting I think we tend to concentrate too much on the elite and their need for childcare. The notion that this childcare contributes to the foreign exchange is a little off base when in reality it contributes to an underground economy because the salaries are mostly off the books and taxes are not paid in any form. Safety issues also arise when you consider that most of the illegeal aliens caring for our children have never had childhood immunizations, and refuse the TB test. This may sound unimportant and nit picking but the reality is diseases we thought were erradicated like whooping cough can be traced to the unimmunized worker. Leaving your children behind to take care of mine is something we as a nation should give more thought about. ... Read more